The Rural Downtown Economic Development Grants from the North Carolina Department of Commerce fund public improvements and revitalization projects to boost economic growth in rural downtowns.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted continuously)
Funding Amounts: Up to $850,000 per project; not to exceed $12,500 per job created/retained; 5% local cash match required; project period up to 36 months.
Summary: Supports local governments in North Carolina with grants for public improvements and revitalization projects in downtown districts to spur economic growth.
Key Information: Eligible only to NC local governments in designated rural areas; certain project types and match rules apply.
The Rural Downtown Economic Development Grants program, administered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, is designed to foster revitalization and spur economic growth in the downtown districts of rural North Carolina communities. Grants support projects that improve public infrastructure, renovate or add to publicly owned buildings, and develop mixed-use properties in downtown areas, with the goal of retaining businesses, attracting customers, and enhancing community vitality. Funding is intended for projects that serve a community-wide purpose and leverage downtowns as economic engines.