Duke Energy Foundation has announced a new grant program totaling $500,000 to support small businesses in North Carolina. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for grants of up to $25,000. These nonprofits will then distribute awards of up to $5,000 to individual small businesses. The funds can be used by local businesses, such as restaurants and retail stores, for purposes including renovations, equipment or technology purchases, inventory, or other business needs.
Applications for the grants are open now and will be accepted through October 31, 2025. Nonprofits interested in applying can find more details and submit their applications on the Duke Energy Foundation’s website.
In 2024, 20 North Carolina organizations received funding for small business support, including the Downtown Greensboro Foundation, the Durham Chamber Legacy Foundation, and the Caraway Foundation in Anson County. Since 2020, the Duke Energy Foundation has committed more than $2.4 million to small business support efforts in the state.
“Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, especially in North Carolina where they employ nearly half of the state’s workforce,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Through strategic grantmaking, the Foundation helps to stimulate local economies, create jobs and foster economic growth in the communities where Duke Energy operates.”
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million each year in philanthropic support for communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States and is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers across several states and own a combined energy capacity of 55,100 megawatts. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers. Duke Energy is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner energy generation as part of its transition toward a smarter energy future.
More information can be found at duke-energy.com and on Duke Energy’s social media channels.
