NC IDEA MICRO

NC IDEA MICRO is a pivotal grant program operated by NC IDEA, a private foundation dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial growth and economic empowerment across North Carolina. Unlike traditional venture capital, NC IDEA MICRO provides non-dilutive funding, specifically designed to support very early-stage entrepreneurs who are in the process of validating novel business concepts. The program aims to de-risk initial exploration for startups, enabling founders to test their ideas and gather crucial market feedback without immediately seeking equity investment. This initiative underscores NC IDEA's broader commitment to cultivating a robust and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem within the state.

The core offering of NC IDEA MICRO is a $10,000 grant awarded to eligible companies. This funding is specifically targeted at businesses with limited financial history, requiring applicants to have less than $50,000 in trailing 12-month revenue and less than $50,000 in prior dilutive funding raised. The program is highly competitive and structured to identify promising ventures that demonstrate potential for significant impact and scalability. It serves as a crucial first step for many North Carolina startups, providing essential capital to cover initial operational costs, market research, or prototype development.

NC IDEA MICRO operates on a regular cycle, typically awarding grants twice a year. In recent cycles, the program has consistently provided funding to 30 North Carolina startups per cycle, totaling $300,000 in grants during each round. This consistent support translates to 60 new grants annually, injecting vital early-stage capital into the state's innovation economy. By focusing on micro-grants, NC IDEA MICRO plays a unique role in bridging the funding gap for nascent businesses, empowering founders to transform innovative ideas into viable enterprises and contributing significantly to the economic vitality of North Carolina.