ASHEVILLE, NC (January 18, 2024) — Mountain BizWorks, in partnership with the Rogers Slater Foundation, Truist Foundation, and other funders, is thrilled to announce the “New Year, New Horizons” round of micro-grant funding. This round of funding is dedicated to fueling the aspirations of underestimated creators, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those who have faced challenges in realizing their dreams. Applicants may apply at mountainbizworks.org/catalyst-grants through February 16, 2024.
In this round, Mountain BizWorks will offer 20 grants, each amounting to $2,500, to startups and emerging businesses owned by people of color across Western North Carolina. These grants are designed to infuse each business with the capital it needs to start, grow, and break through barriers.
“We believe in the power of new beginnings and are committed to supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community forward,” shared Jeremiah Robinson, Director of Catalyst Programs. “This year, we are looking for ideas from historically underrepresented entrepreneurs that not only have high growth potential but also envision a future of innovation, sustainability, and community impact. We can’t wait to see the applicants this round.”
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.
The online application opened on January 16, 2024 and will be available until February 16, 2024. Applications must be completed and submitted no later than 11:59 PM on Friday, February 16. 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.
For more information about the Catalyst Program, visit mountainbizworks.org/catalyst.
