Open Grants Program
The Open Grants Program from the North Carolina Department of Commerce funds research and infrastructure projects to boost economic growth in rural and distressed North Carolina communities.
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Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: Rolling (year-round applications accepted)
Funding Amounts: Most awards up to $200,000; up to $500,000 for projects meeting additional criteria; duration varies by project.
Summary: Supports public infrastructure and economic development projects in North Carolina’s distressed, rural, or tobacco-dependent communities.
Key Information: Requests over $200,000 require a mandatory consultation with Golden LEAF staff before applying.
Description
The Open Grants Program, administered by the Golden LEAF Foundation and highlighted by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, provides funding for economic development initiatives that align with Golden LEAF’s priority areas. The program targets public infrastructure improvements, clearing and rough grading of publicly owned sites, and other activities that promote job creation, workforce preparedness, agriculture, and community vitality. The program’s primary focus is on strengthening the economy of North Carolina, with a particular emphasis on tobacco-dependent, economically distressed, and rural communities.
