Golden LEAF’s SITE Program helps North Carolina communities scientifically assess, prepare, and develop industrial sites to attract and support business growth through phased funding.
Funder: Golden LEAF Foundation
Due Dates: July 9, 2026 | September 10, 2026 | November 12, 2026 | January 7, 2027
Funding Amounts: Award size and duration vary by phase; Development and Due Diligence phases may require a 15% local match in certain counties.
Summary: Supports North Carolina communities in identifying, evaluating, and preparing industrial sites for economic development through phased funding.
Key Information: Only governmental entities and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in NC are eligible; match required in some counties for certain phases.
The SITE Program, administered by the Golden LEAF Foundation, is designed to help rural and economically distressed communities in North Carolina increase their competitiveness for industrial development. The program provides phased support to communities to identify potential industrial sites (Identification phase), conduct due diligence and site assessments (Due Diligence phase), and fund public infrastructure or site preparation (Development phase). The ultimate goal is to expand the availability of high-quality, market-ready industrial sites to attract new businesses and support the growth of existing employers.