Chamber members, if you're building an innovative, high-growth startup in North Carolina, the NC IDEA Fall 2026 Grant Cycle is an outstanding opportunity to secure non-dilutive funding. NC IDEA offers two competitive grants—MICRO ($10,000) and SEED ($50,000)—to help early-stage companies validate their business models, accelerate growth, and scale their impact.

What You'll Receive:
Eligible startups can apply for one of the following:

• NC IDEA MICRO: A $10,000 grant for early-stage companies validating their business model, plus mentorship and an eight-week accelerator program.
• NC IDEA SEED: A $50,000 grant for startups ready to scale, along with mentorship, strategic introductions, and ongoing support from the NC IDEA team. 

Who Can Apply:
Applicants should:

• Be headquartered and primarily operating in North Carolina
• Be an innovative, growth-oriented startup with a scalable business model
• Be developing a unique product, technology, or business model with significant market potential
• Apply for either MICRO or SEED during this grant cycle (not both). 

Why This Matters:
NC IDEA is one of the Southeast's premier startup funding organizations. In addition to grant funding, recipients gain access to experienced mentors, strategic connections, and resources designed to help founders validate their ideas, attract investment, and build high-growth companies.

Apply Now!