Rise Up is a North Carolina-based initiative committed to empowering women-led, minority-led, and youth entrepreneurs (ages 13+) that frequently face barriers to accessing capital and resources.

​

We’re not a huge organization, and we’re not backed by a big corporation. We’re simply here to give entrepreneurs a real opportunity—without endless red tape, without the need for a “perfect” application, without expensive fees, and without forcing you to compete against thousands of other applicants. We keep things simple, personal, and focused on helping you move forward.

Our mission is to foster economic opportunity and inclusive growth by awarding small business grants, to kickstart new ventures, support the expansion of existing small businesses, and uplift community-centered programs that create positive local impact. Each grant cycle is announced well before the application window opens, giving applicants plenty of time to prepare their pitch and put their best ideas forward.

​

There is a $25 application fee for each grant cycle. This small fee helps us extend our after-grant services, sustain our volunteer community review panel for their extensive time and support, and keep the program running for as many entrepreneurs as possible. By contributing, applicants directly help us maintain the resources that make Rise Up more than just a grant.

​

Because Rise Up goes beyond funding—we also offer business support services, including website creation, marketing assistance and more —at grant-style, affordable pricing. This hands-on support helps entrepreneurs build strong foundations and grow sustainably, even with limited resources.

​

We believe entrepreneurial dreams—from launching a handcrafted candle line to growing a food truck business or building impactful community initiatives—deserve support regardless of background or circumstance. By focusing on those often overlooked, Rise Up aims to bridge gaps in access to funding, mentorship, and visibility.

​

Rooted in Johnston County with a growing reach!