Duke Energy Foundation has announced it will provide $500,000 in grants to support small businesses across North Carolina. The funding will be distributed through 20 nonprofit organizations, each receiving $25,000 to award grants of up to $5,000 to individual small businesses. These funds are intended for business needs such as renovations, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, inventory acquisition, or other operational improvements.
Small businesses make up nearly half of the workforce in North Carolina and are seen as key drivers of economic activity in the state. Since 2020, Duke Energy Foundation has contributed more than $2.4 million toward initiatives supporting small businesses.
Kendal Bowman, North Carolina state president for Duke Energy, stated: “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., said: “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 added: “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 selected organizations distributing these funds include groups such as Beaufort Business Association; Chimney Rock Economic Development and Investment Team; Downtown Salisbury Inc.; Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association; Greater Eden Chamber Foundation; Launchhollysprings Inc.; McDowell Chamber Community and Business Impact; Mitchell Community College Foundation; Mitchell County Development Foundation; Montcross Area Chamber; Moore County Economic Development Partnership; Partnership for a Sustainable Community; Person County Business & Industrial Center; Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation; Region A Council; Renaissance Downtown Durham; Rolesville Downtown Development Association; Stokes County Arts Council; The Surry County Economic Development Foundation Inc.; and Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders.
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in America with electric utilities serving millions across several states including North Carolina. The company is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources while focusing on reliability for its customers.
More information about Duke Energy can be found at duke-energy.com or through its social media channels.
