This Is Rise-Up
There is no dream too big or too small to accomplish. At Rise Up, we understand that sometimes all it takes is a little help to get started. Dreams shouldn’t be held back by lack of funding or credit — we’re here to make sure yours don’t go to waste.
Rise Up is a grassroots, North Carolina-based initiative committed to empowering bold entrepreneurs in Johnston County and surrounding communities—especially those who are minority-led, women-led, youth-led, or serve low-income areas that frequently face barriers to accessing capital and resources.
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We’re not a huge organization, and we’re not backed by a big corporation. We’re simply here to give entrepreneurs in our region 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 $1,000 micro-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.
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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.
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Because Rise Up goes beyond funding—we also offer business support services, including website creation, marketing assistance, and licensing guidance—at grant-style, affordable pricing. This hands-on support helps entrepreneurs build strong foundations and grow sustainably, even with limited resources.
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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.
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Rooted in Johnston County with a growing reach across North Carolina, Rise Up is proud to be in the process of applying for HUB certification as part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe this designation will further strengthen our ability to support historically underutilized entrepreneurs and build statewide partnerships that empower lasting impact.
What Makes Us Different?
One of the First Grassroots Programs of Its Kind in NC
We’re a community-led initiative offering micro-grants specifically designed to support women, minority, and youth entrepreneurs, as well as those running businesses in low-income or underserved areas.
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Our affordable business support services—including website creation, marketing help, and licensing guidance—are available to all entrepreneurs, regardless of background.
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Our personalized, revolving grant model is rooted in community impact and accountability, helping entrepreneurs grow while giving back.
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Inclusive and Accessible
No complicated applications or business plans required. We focus on your story, passion, and potential—not your paperwork.
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Personal Connection
As a grassroots initiative, grants and support services are delivered personally by our founder whenever possible. Recipients receive ongoing resources to help their ventures thrive.
Focused on Real Impact
We don’t just give money; we invest in people, confidence, and opportunity—one small step at a time.
