Mountain BizWorks is thrilled to announce the opening of another round of Catalyst micro-grants. This funding is dedicated to fueling the aspirations of marginalized creators, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs who have faced challenges in realizing their dreams. Applicants may apply through Friday, October 11, 2024 at mountainbizworks.org/catalyst-grants.
In this round, Mountain BizWorks will offer 20 grants of $2,500 to startups and emerging businesses owned by people of color and other underrepresented entrepreneurs across Western North Carolina. These grants are designed to infuse businesses with the capital they need to start, grow, and break through barriers.
“We know that even a small amount of funding can go a long way, especially in underserved communities,” said Jeremiah Robinson, Director of Catalyst Programs. “This grant is designed to act as seed capital to help remove barriers and de-risk innovative ideas that could accelerate business growth. We want to create opportunities for entrepreneurs to test new ideas, take bold steps, and see how far they can go with the right support. I’m excited to see the potential this round will unlock.
This cycle, applicants should share ideas that not only have high growth potential but also envision a future of innovation, sustainability, and community impact. To be eligible, an applicant’s business must meet the following requirements:
- The business should be at least 50% owned and controlled by individuals from historically underrepresented groups in business.
- The business must be a for-profit entity, situated and operational within Western North Carolina.
- The business should have annual gross revenues of less than $150,000. This criterion is in place to ensure we are supporting businesses that are in the most critical stages of growth and development.
- The business should be independently owned and operated.
Applications must be completed and submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. on Friday, October 11. Email Tiarra Wilkie, Mountain BizWorks’ Catalyst Program Manager, at tiarra@mountainbizworks.org with any questions related to the application. Visit mountainbizworks.org/catalyst-grants to apply now.
