Small Business Impact Program

The Duke Energy Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Duke Energy Corporation, supports programs that strengthen communities in its service areas, particularly across North Carolina. Through its Small Business Impact Program, the Foundation seeks to enhance economic mobility and local resilience by empowering small businesses that are central to community vitality. This initiative aligns with Duke Energy’s long-standing commitment to supporting workforce development, economic advancement, and inclusive growth within the regions it serves. The Small Business Impact Program offers $500,000 in total grant funding to eligible nonprofit organizations in North Carolina that can administer “Impact Awards” to small businesses. Each participating nonprofit may apply for a grant of $25,000 by October 31 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Nonprofits are permitted to use up to $2,500 of this award for administrative expenses, with the remaining funds directed toward small businesses through sub-grants of up to $5,000 per business. The Foundation intends that these awards help local enterprises invest in business improvements that foster long-term capacity, customer engagement, and community impact. Small businesses that receive Impact Awards may apply funds toward tangible growth investments such as renovations, equipment, technology, or inventory that strengthen their ability to attract customers, expand operations, and generate revenue. The program specifically excludes the use of funds for payroll, rent, or utilities. Participating nonprofits must distribute their Impact Awards by March 30, 2026, following a program launch by January 15, 2026. This timeline ensures that funds are quickly deployed into communities to stimulate measurable economic benefits. Eligible applicants for this funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities serving communities within Duke Energy’s North Carolina service areas. Governmental entities are excluded from this particular opportunity, though generally the Foundation considers such applicants for other programs. Additional requirements include nondiscrimination in service delivery and a demonstrated ability to measure and report program outcomes and community results. Organizations that engage in partisan political activity, operate as private foundations, or provide benefits directly to Duke Energy or its employees are ineligible. Grant applications must be submitted online through the Duke Energy Foundation portal and titled “Small Business: [Insert description of the request]” to ensure proper routing for consideration. Mislabeling may result in exclusion from review. The Foundation will notify successful nonprofit grantees by November 30, 2025. Questions regarding eligibility or submission should be directed to nc-foundation@duke-energy.com. Selected nonprofits will administer their programs according to the outlined schedule, ensuring transparency, compliance, and maximum community impact across North Carolina.

Ensure accurate application title and measurable metrics; follow submission deadline of Oct 31.