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Infrastructure Support for Small Businesses in Western North Carolina

Introduction to the Grant Program

RALEIGH, NC – Local governments in western North Carolina now have the opportunity to apply for grants from a newly established $55 million state infrastructure program. This initiative is specifically designed to aid small businesses in the region as they work to recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene.

Overview of the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program

The Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program is offered through the North Carolina Department of Commerce along with its Rural Economic Development Division. Under this program, individual grants of up to $1 million will be available to local governments. The focus will be on rebuilding essential public infrastructure, which is crucial for the operation and thriving of small businesses in the region.

The Importance of Supporting Local Economies

“Western North Carolina’s economy greatly relies on its lively downtown areas and small business enterprises. Supporting their recovery is of utmost importance,” remarked Governor Stein. He emphasized, “This new grant program is poised to rejuvenate the infrastructure that small businesses depend upon, and I am thankful to the General Assembly for allocating these much-needed funds.” The initiative signifies a commitment by state officials to bolster local economies by directly addressing issues arising from the hurricane.

Funding Appropriations and Legislative Support

The funding for the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ) will come from state funds allocated by the North Carolina General Assembly through the recently enacted Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 Part 1. Governor Stein signed this legislation into effect on March 19, 2025, allowing for swift action to support affected areas.

Grant Utilization Guidelines

Grants awarded through this program must be utilized by local governments to tackle infrastructure needs. These needs must be identified in close consultation with applicant local governments and the small businesses they support. It’s important that the identified infrastructure damage is directly due to the effects of Hurricane Helene, impacting access to and operations of the small businesses involved.

Types of Infrastructure Covered

The infrastructure eligible for funding through these grants must not be owned by the small businesses, nor should they bear maintenance responsibilities for it. The types of infrastructure eligible for funding could include, but are not limited to:

• Water supply systems
• Sewer systems
• Gas utilities
• Telecommunications infrastructure
• High-speed broadband access
• Electrical utilities
• Sidewalks and curbs
• Other essential repairs necessary to restore or improve access

Collaborative Recovery Efforts

“Successful recovery from disasters of the magnitude caused by Helene requires a collective effort, drawing support from various state and federal sources,” stated North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. He expressed gratitude to the North Carolina General Assembly for quickly mobilizing funds for this crucial infrastructure recovery program. This collaboration is essential for ensuring that local communities can bounce back effectively.

Resources for Application

An application portal and additional information regarding the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program are available for interested parties to explore further opportunities. This portal serves as a vital resource for local governments looking to apply for grant funding that can contribute to rebuilding and revitalizing their communities.

How AI legalese decoder Can Assist

Navigating grant applications can often be complicated, with numerous regulations and legal requirements. This is where the AI legalese decoder can play a pivotal role. The tool helps in simplifying complex legal jargon, making it easier for local governments and small businesses to understand the requirements and nuances of the grant application process. By breaking down legal language into accessible terms, the AI legalese decoder ensures that applicants are well-informed and prepared to meet all necessary criteria, thereby increasing the chances of securing funding. This assistance is invaluable in a high-stakes environment where clarity and precision are critical.

In conclusion, the introduction of the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program is a significant step toward revitalizing the economy in western North Carolina, and tools like AI legalese decoder can enhance understanding and access to these vital resources.

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