News & Insights

Twenty-Sixth NC IDEA SEED Grant Cycle Kicks-Off with Info Sessions throughout the State

NC IDEA FOUNDATION Seeking Applications from Innovative NC Startups Starting Aug. 20

DURHAM, NC – August 8, 2018 – NC IDEA, a private foundation committed to supporting entrepreneurial ambition and economic advancement in North Carolina, announced today that the organization’s 26th NC IDEA SEED grant cycle will open on Aug. 20. The upcoming cycle will kick-off with a series of informational sessions throughout the state.

NC IDEA SEED provides $50,000 grants to innovative NC-based startups, and those looking to relocate to North Carolina, typically between proof of concept and profitability. The grants are intended to support business activities that validate target markets, reduce risk associated with early stage companies and help companies get to the point of suitability for growth – whether through investment or revenue. The application will be available online from Aug. 20 through Sept. 10 at 5 p.m. EST.

Interested applicants may attend any of the following interactive informational sessions scheduled throughout the state to learn more about NC IDEA SEED and gain insight on the characteristics of competitive applications.

In addition to the above information sessions, applicants can also schedule Virtual Office Hours during the month of August to answer specific questions. For more information about NC IDEA SEED or to register for one of the information sessions, please visit https://ncidea.org/grants-programs/nc-idea-seed/.

About NC IDEA FOUNDATION
NC IDEA is an independent private foundation committed to supporting entrepreneurial ambition and economic advancement in North Carolina. Today, the organization fulfills this mission through multiple grant and assistance programs. NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM funds organizations across the state that execute creative programs to support entrepreneurs. Similarly, NC IDEA ENGAGE is a community-focused grant program supporting individuals and organizations that facilitate entrepreneurship activity. Over the last decade, the NC IDEA SEED program has awarded over $5.5 million in non-dilutive grants to 132 high-growth companies across the state, and most recently awarded nearly $150,000 in 15 micro-grants through a pilot program. Since 2011, over 150 companies have participated in NC IDEA LABS, formerly Groundwork Labs, to guide founders developing an idea or product. NC IDEA SOAR, a program founded in 2012, supports female entrepreneurs leading scalable businesses in raising capital through mentorship, strategic advice and connections. NC IDEA LEAD, the Foundation’s newest program, provides leadership training for founders of high-growth companies. Learn more at ncidea.org.