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small business assistance grant (2160 x 1080 px)

Thank you for your interest in the Small Business Assistance Grant Program!

The purpose of the Rowan Chamber & City of Salisbury's Small Business Assistance Grant program is to drive economic stability, diversity, and growth in our community by strengthening and growing established businesses within the City of Salisbury.

The Chamber recognizes the value of entrepreneurism and small businesses who bring innovation, quality of life, jobs, and investment to the community. Businesses selected for this program will be those that demonstrate innovation and offer a unique competitive advantage. Recipients should be strong corporate citizens, committed to supporting their employees and other locally owned businesses.

Applicants do not have to be Rowan Chamber investors (members) to apply. However, because the funding is provided by the City of Salisbury, all applicants must operate within the Salisbury city limits. While several grant programs already serve the downtown area, this small business grant is designed to prioritize key corridors outside of downtown, such as the West End, South Main Street, and West Innes Street.

Small business grant overview:

  • Businesses located in City of Salisbury limits with 10 or fewer employees (or full time equivalent).
  • They must be a legal entity and registered with the NC Secretary of State and have appropriate permits to operate.
  • The business must have been in operation for a minimum of three (3) years.
  • They must submit a quality business plan (FREE assistance available from RCCC Small Business Center)
  • Grant funds may be used for a fixed asset utilized for the business or permanent improvements to physical space (examples: manufacturing equipment, lawnmower, vacuum cleaner, building signage, lighting, awnings, flooring)
  • Grant funds may NOT be used for ongoing operational expenses (examples: rent, utilities, salaries, financing debt, inventory, memberships, legal fees)
  • Grant requests may range from $5,000 – $10,000.

Important Permitting Notice
Projects that impact the exterior of a building may require permits. Please note that all City of Salisbury permitting regulations apply. Any project requiring a Certificate of Appropriateness, Sign Permit, and/or any other permits must apply through the City of Salisbury (132 N. Main Street, Salisbury, NC 28144).

This is not an exhaustive list of permitting requirements. Applicants should consult City of Salisbury staff with any permitting questions at 1stop@salisburync.gov or 704-638-5208.

Grant Application Available January 30.

The Chamber actively seeks to support and increase the participation of veteran, women, and minority-owned businesses in this program. Location in an economically disadvantaged Census Tract and low-moderate income business owners are encouraged to apply.

For questions about the application, please reach out to Chamber President Elaine Spalding (704) 633-4221 or espalding@rowanchamber.com.