Spring 2026 Grant Cycle

MICRO ($10K) & SEED ($50K) Applications Open Januay 26th.

Applications Due: February 23rd (5:00 PM EST.)

Whether you have just launched a startup or are looking to grow and scale your company, NC IDEA has resources that can help in the success of your journey when and where you need it most.

Early stage, growth-oriented companies can apply for one of two different NC IDEA grants:

NC IDEA MICRO awards $10K project-based grants to young companies looking to validate assumptions and develop a business model.
NC IDEA SEED offers $50K grants to early stage companies, often the critical funding they need to scale faster.

*** Note: Applicants may only apply to either MICRO or SEED (not both) during the grant cycle.***

LEARN MORE AND APPLY

UNDERSTAND THE PROGRAMS

Review the eligibility criteria and program details for MICRO and SEED
See a quick comparison of eligibil ity criteria between MICRO and SEED
Preview the applications for MICRO and SEED

ATTEND AN INFO SESSION

Attend an upcoming Info Session:
- January 12 – Register for the Spring 2026 Grants Information Webinar Here.
- TBA – Charlotte Info Session
- January 21 – Winston-Salem/Triad Info Session
- TBA – Triangle Info Session
- TBA – Asheville Info Session
- TBA – Wilmington Info Session
Sign up for Virtual Office Hours: TBA
Watch our Fall 2025 Grants Info Session Webinar or view the presentation deck

EXPLORE ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Read our FAQs about both programs
Connect with our network of ECOSYSTEM Partners
Connect with our growing network of funded companies built over 20 years
Tune in to our Ecosysteming Podcast and our Where Are They Now video series
Explore the latest NC IDEA updates, featuring news from our companies, partners, and more