The Spring 2024 Entrepreneur Grant is CLOSED! See below for application materials.
Grant winners will be announced at Wilkes EDC’s May 10th Board Meeting.
For comments, questions, or concerns, contact us today.
The ideal grant for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Wilkes EDC Entrepreneurial Grant Program provides funding opportunities for both existing businesses seeking expansion and aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to start a business in Wilkes County. This biannual program, offered in Spring and Fall, has been supporting local businesses since its establishment in 2015. All applicants must be either new ventures or existing businesses operating within Wilkes County, and they can seek our assistance to either kickstart their companies or fuel their growth.
Every year, the Review Committee meticulously assesses each business plan, focusing on factors like sustainability and the potential impact of the funding.
Program Sponsors
Please Note: Services will be unavailable from March 12 – 15, 26, and 27. We encourage you to schedule your appointments with Laurie Brintle-Jarvis as soon as possible, well before the March 31st, so you have time to revise your application materials.
Submission Requirements
The initial grant application is now available. Click the button below to be directed to our HubSpot form.
Submit your business plan using the file provided below. Please use the documents provided by Wilkes EDC.
Please include a Financial Summary for your business. Click the button below to download the file and complete all applicable fields.
Please use the documents provided by Wilkes EDC.
A video pitch is required explaining how the grant funds will grow or start your business. Please keep the video to 3-5 minute. You are to address the following points:
- Who You Are & Location of Your Business
- Existing Businesses: How Long You’ve Been Open
- Your Business Idea/Solution/Product
- How You Would Use the Grant Funds
- What Solution it Provides to Wilkes County
For technical questions regarding your video submission or general inquiries, please contact info@WilkesEDC.com or call (336) 838-1501 ext. 3.
Selected participants will give a full presentation to a panel of judges.
Please email completed application materials to Marketing Manager, Francisco Martinez at info@WilkesEDC.com.
Can I use the funds towards my services, employee wages, or inventory?
No, we want to see your business grow and reach the next level. Looking at our past winners, you’ll notice that funds have gone towards equipment, marketing, or supplies to help businesses expand their services or grow their teams.
Can I use the funds to upgrade the building or store I’m leasing?
It is a no unless it is equipment that can go with you if you move.
Can I apply for this grant as a non-profit?
No. This grant is only available to for-profit entities.
How will grant funds be received if I win?
You will have up to a year to draw out your funds. In order to receive your funds, Wilkes EDC will need a receipt for your item(s). If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our team.
Can I reapply to the Grant Program if I am a recent winner?
We ask recipients to wait one grant cycle. You may reapply to this program the following round.
Please Note: Any business that applies cannot be guaranteed any grant proceeds or other benefits from this project, whether approved or not. The Wilkes EDC does not endorse any applicant for this program, thereby refuting any claims.
