Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program

The Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ) is a disaster recovery initiative established by the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Rural Economic Development Division (REDD), designed to assist local governments in rebuilding critical infrastructure supporting small businesses affected by Hurricane Helene. The program is authorized by North Carolina Session Law 2025-02 and funded through the Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Fund with a total allocation of $55 million from the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025. It is distinct from federal Community Development Block Grant programs and specifically targets infrastructure restoration to help local economies rebound. This grant initiative aims to provide financial assistance for restoring and repairing vital public infrastructure that has been compromised due to Hurricane Helene. The intended outcomes include resuming business operations, restoring customer access, encouraging private investment, and enhancing economic sustainability and resilience in impacted areas. Eligible infrastructure includes utilities such as water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications, broadband, and transportation-related infrastructure like sidewalks and curbs. Only local governments located in areas designated under a major disaster declaration by the President under the Stafford Act for Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply. These include both city and county governments within North Carolina. Special consideration will be given to governments within Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties as determined by state economic rankings. The program restricts its funding to public infrastructure that is not owned or maintained by the affected small businesses, which are defined as businesses employing 150 or fewer people. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis starting May 1, 2025, via the Rural Connect online portal. The application must be complete with detailed descriptions of the damage, a scope of work, a sustainability plan, certified cost estimates, and several attachments such as maps, photos, and business information. The application process includes multiple narrative questions and a requirement for a resolution from the local government. Applications will be reviewed in the order received, with award decisions announced quarterly on June 30, October 31, February 28, and June 30 of the following year. The maximum award per grantee is $1 million, with a limit of 10% of total available funds allocated per county. There is no minimum grant amount, but administrative costs are capped at 1.5% of the total award. Projects must be completed within 36 months unless an extension is approved. Application preparation costs of up to $3,500 may be charged if the grant is awarded. Local governments must manage the grant’s implementation and adhere to all relevant procurement, monitoring, and reporting requirements. For further assistance, applicants may contact Hazel Edmond, Director of Rural Engagement & Investment, at 984-297-5082 or via email at hazel.edmond@commerce.nc.gov. More program documents, forms, and compliance requirements can be accessed through the program’s webpage at commerce.nc.gov/smBIZ.