How much funding does Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program provide?

Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program provides Up to $5,000 per grant; total varies by cycle in funding.

When is the deadline for Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program?

The listed deadline is October 31, 2026; confirm it with the funder before applying.

How often is Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program offered?

Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program runs on a twice a year cycle. The next deadline is expected October 31, 2026.

Wilkes Entrepreneur Grant Program

Wilkes Economic Development

Foundation Semi-annual Small Business Grants Grants for Startups

Funding Amount

Up to $5,000 per grant; total varies by cycle

Deadline

October 31, 2026

Listed date — confirm with the funder

Grant Type

Foundation

Deadline history & next window

Cycle: Twice a year
Current deadline: October 31, 2026
Tracked since: April 2026

Source: the cycle recorded on this listing. Confirm dates with the funder.

Can we apply?

Check your organization against each line. Taken from the listing; confirm with the funder's guidelines.

Geography

In Wilkes County

Other requirements

For the main program: businesses at any stage
Success rate: 87.36% of participating businesses remain active

Overview

Geographic Scope: Wilkes County, North Carolina

Focus Areas: Support small business growth and development across various industries including retail, outdoor recreation, entertainment, health & wellness, arts and culture, tourism and hospitality, literary arts, and agritourism.

Eligibility:

Small business owners and entrepreneurs in Wilkes County
For the main program: businesses at any stage
Success rate: 87.36% of participating businesses remain active

What They Fund:

Equipment purchases and upgrades
Point-of-sale (POS) systems
Signage and outdoor improvements
Technology and software
Space improvements and renovations
Marketing and branding initiatives
Website enhancements
Business operational upgrades

Program Details:

Application requires: video pitch, business plan, and financial summary
Judged by panel of local business leaders and community experts
Past cycles awarded: Spring 2025 ($18,000 across 6 recipients), Fall 2025 ($14,000 across 4 recipients)
Program maintained by Wilkes EDC with support from local government partners, LEAP Forward Investors, Wilkes Community College Small Business Center, and Wilkes Chamber of Commerce

Contact:

Wilkes Economic Development Corporation
213 9th Street N, Wilkesboro, NC 28659
Phone: (336) 838-1501
Email: lnixon@wilkesedc.com
Website: wilkesedc.com

How to Apply

Application Process

Application Requirements:
- Video pitch presentation
- Comprehensive business plan
- Financial summary
Selection Criteria:
- Potential impact of funding for the business
- Sustainability of proposed plans
- Demonstrated commitment to business growth
Review Process:
- Applications reviewed by panel of judges including local business owners, community development professionals, and small business experts
- Judges assess long-term business viability and growth potential
Submission Requirements:
- For pitch night events (like WEN Pitch Night): completion of two Small Business Center seminars, two hours of one-on-one counseling, and comprehensive pitch deck development
Support Available:
- One-on-one counseling from Wilkes Community College Small Business Center
- Business plan development assistance
- Financial summary guidance