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community
uplifting future leaders

REAL HELP. REAL PEOPLE.

real help. real people

COMMUNITY-DRIVEN.

community driven
equity over access

EQUITY OVER ACCESS.

UPLIFTING FUTURE LEADERS.

A Grassroots Initiative

Focused on empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs—including women-owned and minority-led ventures, individuals who operate or are developing business in a low income area, and youth (ages 13+) with startups and bold new visions—through funding, coaching, and meaningful support. We believe real change happens when communities come together to lift each other up—sparking ideas, fueling dreams, and building stronger futures from the ground up.

“I created Rise Up because too many dreamers get stuck at the starting line—held back by lack of funding, lack of support, or just not knowing where to begin. This isn’t just about handing out money. It’s about showing up for people with hustle and heart—by offering grants, digital tools, and real guidance to help turn ideas into income.”

     - Candice Bustamante

meet the founder

Community Micro-Grants

We award $1,000 micro-grants to help kickstart new ventures or grow existing small businesses. Whether you’re dreaming of starting a candle business, running a food truck, or expanding a community-based service, this grant is for you.

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This is for underrepresented entrepreneurs across North Carolina who:
 

  • Identify as women or a minority

  • Operate or are developing a business in a low-income or underserved area

  • Are youth (ages 13+) with bold ideas and big goals

Real Post-Grant Support

When you are a recipient of a Rise Up Grant, you're not just handed a check—you’re brought into a community that wants to see you thrive.

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Our recipients receive:

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  • $1,000 in funding to support your business or idea

  • Spotlight features on our website and social platforms

  • Option to choose:
     

    • ​1:1 session to help you create a website starter package, which includes two custom-designed pages and a 1-year paid Basic Premium Plan 
      OR​

    • A $100 VistaPrint credit to use toward marketing materials or branding
       

This isn’t a one-time win—it’s the start of a long-term support system.

Because when one of us rises, we all do.

Business Support

No matter where you’re starting—building from the ground up or refreshing your brand—our coaching meets you right where you are.

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We offer grant-style priced services, built with affordability in mind and offered at roughly 50% reduced market rate, including:

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  • Website design and setup using Wix

  • Help setting up your business social media pages

  • Starter content calendar for social media

  • SEO tools and practical tips

  • Support registering your business

  • Google Business Profile setup assistance

  • Applying for Business Certifications

  • Notary services
     

These services are especially designed for early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses in underserved or underrepresented communities.

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Our coaching is open to everyone—whether you’re applying for a Rise Up Grant or just need help getting your business online and seen.

No tech experience? No problem.
No pressure—just real support to help you rise.

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