Duke Energy Foundation has announced it will provide $500,000 in grants to support small businesses across North Carolina. The funds will be distributed through 20 nonprofit organizations, each receiving $25,000 to award individual grants of up to $5,000 for local small businesses. These grants are intended to help businesses with needs such as renovations, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, inventory, and other operational expenses.
Small businesses play a significant role in North Carolina’s economy by employing nearly half of the state’s workforce. Since 2020, Duke Energy Foundation has given more than $2.4 million toward initiatives supporting small businesses.
Kendal Bowman, North Carolina state president for Duke Energy, said: “Supporting small businesses boosts local economic activity, which has a positive impact on the communities and customers we serve. We’re proud to work alongside our community partners to help entrepreneurs and local businesses make their dreams a reality.”
Nicole J. Thompson, president and CEO of Downtown Durham Inc., stated: “With Duke Energy’s support, DDI will turn business-led ideas into practical improvements that elevate safety, visibility and vitality. Upgrading the alleys that connect parking to Main Street will help storefronts shine, help create an engaging environment and attract more customers to discover all that downtown has to offer.”
Catherine Glover, executive director for Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation, commented: “With support from the Duke Energy Foundation, 10 Beaufort County small businesses will each receive a $2,500 grant to make meaningful improvements that strengthen their operations, expand their reach, and enhance their customer experience. Small businesses are the backbone of Eastern North Carolina, and this funding will help 10 outstanding local businesses continue to grow and thrive.”
The nonprofits selected for this program include organizations such as Beaufort Business Association; Downtown Salisbury Inc.; Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association; Greater Eden Chamber Foundation; McDowell Chamber Community and Business Impact; Mitchell Community College Foundation; Montcross Area Chamber; Moore County Economic Development Partnership; Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation; Renaissance Downtown Durham; Rolesville Downtown Development Association; Stokes County Arts Council; The Surry County Economic Development Foundation Inc.; Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation; among others.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic contributions focused on community needs where its customers live and work. The foundation is funded by shareholders of Duke Energy.
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States with headquarters in Charlotte. It serves 8.4 million electric utility customers across several states including North Carolina.
For more information about Duke Energy’s activities or philanthropic efforts visit duke-energy.com or check out updates at the Duke Energy News Center.
