Economic Catalyst Program
The Economic Catalyst Program from the North Carolina Department of Commerce funds infrastructure and site prep projects to spur job-creating business growth in economically distressed NC communities.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted year-round)
Funding Amounts: No fixed cap; award size and match requirements are case-specific and negotiated based on project scope and job creation commitments.
Summary: Supports public infrastructure and site preparation projects that drive job creation by committed companies in economically distressed or tobacco-dependent North Carolina communities.
Key Information: Applicants must apply before a company announces its decision to locate and create jobs; project must be at risk without Golden LEAF support.
Description
The Economic Catalyst Program, administered by the Golden LEAF Foundation in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Commerce, funds public infrastructure projects and clearing/rough grading on publicly owned sites to catalyze job creation in economically distressed or tobacco-dependent areas of North Carolina. The program is designed for projects where a specific company has committed to creating full-time jobs but where the project is at risk of not proceeding without Golden LEAF’s support. Eligible projects include water and sewer infrastructure and site preparation activities, with a focus on charitable, educational, or scientific uses that align with Golden LEAF’s mission to strengthen North Carolina’s economy.
