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NC IDEA SEED

NC IDEA SEED

Funds early-stage North Carolina startups for scaling-ready programs through milestone-based support.

Between cyclesNC IDEAUnited StatesEligible in North Carolina

NC IDEA SEED is a $50,000 non-dilutive grant for North Carolina startups that have achieved proof of concept, demonstrated market evidence, and built an MVP — and are ready to scale. Operated by NC IDEA, a private foundation based in Raleigh, SEED is awarded once per year and distributed over 6 to 12 months in milestone-based tranches that require regular progress reporting. The 2026 cycle timelin…

Non-dilutive $50,000 milestone-based grants for North Carolina startups with proof of concept and an MVP that are ready to scale, distributed over 6–12 months with progress reporting requirements.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.24 Aug 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.15 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.6–12 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: ncidea.org