Business Growth Grant

To help you with general business needs, this grant offers up to $50,000 of 1:1 matching funds for a one-time expense. There will be 4 grants awarded.

Purpose

To help small businesses purchase goods and services necessary for meaningful growth.

What It Covers

One-time purchases of new equipment, tools, professional services, or computer hardware/software that will create a measurable opportunity for business growth. The proposed investment should help the business increase production, expand products or services, reach new customers, improve sales capacity, or support the creation of jobs.

Routine replacement of worn, outdated, or existing equipment does not qualify unless the applicant clearly demonstrates that the new investment will provide additional capabilities or capacity that directly supports business growth.

Qualifications

• Must have a current business license (if required at your location) at the time of grant application (and must have been active for at least one year prior to applying for the grant). License must remain paid and active until three years after the completion of the project.
• Work cannot have started before application approval.
• Business cannot be in default or non-compliance with any county programs, ordinances, or taxes.
• Must sign up for the county’s email list, which provides business resource information including educational opportunities.
• Must complete approved projects within one year of grant approval.
• Must be a small, locally owned business (located in Mecklenburg County)— employing between 5 – 50 full-time or part-time employees. Note: If you are a local franchisee with no corporate support, you are still eligible to apply.

Details & Exclusions

• Recurring expenses do not qualify (e.g., utility bills, rent/mortgage payments, salaries, late fees, taxes, license fees, membership dues).
• Funds may not be used for: alcohol, tobacco, medicine, or similar substances; or past due bills or past expenses.
• Expenses must be paid in full by the applicant and presented to Mecklenburg County showing a date after the grant approval date to be eligible for up to 50% reimbursement.
• Home-based businesses may apply but must clearly show that the expenses are business-related, not residential in nature.
• Maximum grant of $50,000 per business
• Non-profit entities are not eligible.

How to Apply

1. Complete, sign, and submit the grant application. Include all quotes, a copy of your current business license, and a signed IRS Form W-9. Submit via email, mail, or in person to the Mecklenburg County Economic Development & Tourism Office.
2. Applications close on November 30. The committee reviews will take place in December, and awards will be announced in January. *
3. Begin the work once you return the signed performance agreement.

*If funds related to this grant are not fully expended in this grant round, there is potential for a 2nd round of grant applications.

Prepare for your submission
Review a pdf of the application that will be available to submit online from September 1 – November 30. This sample pdf application is not for submission and will not be accepted as a valid application.