Robersonville, NC Downtown Beautification

Transcription

Robersonville, NC
Downtown
Beautification
This document provides suggestions to the Town of Robersonville and
Robersonville’s Improvement Commission on their revitalization and
beautification efforts for Robersonville’s downtown/Main Street. Like many
older small town main streets throughout the nation, new development
outside of the downtown region has created a hardship for business that once
thrived in these main street locations. Downtown revitalization doesn’t
happen overnight, but with persistence and a coordinated effort from the
community and local officials, Robersonville’s downtown will become vibrant.
Stephen D. Penn
Urban and Regional Planner
penns07@gmail.com
A
DOWNTOWN
WITH
UNLIMITED
POTENTIAL.
PART I
Robersonville, NC Main Street/ Downtown Revitalization
In cities and towns throughout the United States, community leaders, residents, municipalities
and local business owners have been working to bring life back to their downtowns and Main
Streets. A comprehensive revitalization process is designed to benefit the town through the
promotion of economic development, the strengthening of public participation and other
benefits. To attract new businesses and to promote building rehabilitation, revitalization of the
downtown must focus on making Robersonville’s Main Street attractive and fun to visit for
residents and tourists. According to North Carolina’s Main Street Center, there are four key
elements that form the Main Street Four-Point approach to downtown revitalization.
Additionally, they define elemental truths (Main Street Truths) that they believe must be taken
into consideration when a town approaches a revitalization effort.
Main Street Truths
The North Carolina Main Street Program has set up these truths to help communities and
organizers think about their revitalization:
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As in life, downtown development is evolutionary.
To progress, you should build upon your strengths.
It all starts with a dream, but the dream has to be shared.
If you want someone to fight for it, they must believe.
Being right is irrelevant; it’s about helping people make good choices.
We need pioneers and risk takers.
We must be patiently impatient.
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Main Street Four Point Approach
 Organization involves building partnerships to create a consistent revitalization
program. Developing effective management and leadership downtown is a vital part of
the Main Street program. Diverse groups-including merchants, bankers, public officials
and others-must all work together to improve downtown.
 Promotion helps to re-establish downtown as an attractive place for shoppers, investors
and visitors. This means not only improving sales, but also rekindling community
excitement and involvement. Promotion ranges from street festivals to retail
merchandising; from community education to public relations.
 Design works to enhance the visual quality of downtown. Attention is given to all
elements of the downtown environment, not just buildings and storefronts, but also
public spaces, rear entries, signs, landscaping, window displays and graphic materials
such as banners logos and posters.
 Economic Restructuring entails strengthening the downtown’s existing economic assets
while diversifying its economic base. This is the program’s ultimate goal. Activities
include market analysis and business recruitment.
(City of Clinton, NC Main Street Program 2010)
Robersonville, NC within the Four Point Approach:
An interest group comprised of interested citizens, merchants, downtown building
owners and public officials must be established and meet with the sole agenda of
improving the downtown. This is perhaps the most important step to take in revitalizing
downtown. This committee must focus on fundraising events and other funding options
such as grants. Exploring the possibility of historic tax credits, if available, must also be
a part of the group’s efforts. The commission should focus on the promotion of the
shops and downtown, as well as forming partnerships with local and regional businesses
and groups such as Ann’s House of Nuts, East Carolina Motor Speedway, Martin
County’s Arts Council, and other local establishments. Festivals sponsored by local and
regional businesses are also productive ways to draw attention to the town of
Robersonville and to attract more business to the downtown region. Festivals like
Williamston’s Stampede or Washington’s Music in The Streets may attract residents
from throughout the region and attract attention from potential business clients.
Closing Main Street between Railroad Street and East Second Street for bands to
perform and vendors to set-up would be an ideal location for such an event or festival.
The privately owned open lot on the corner of Highway 903 and Northeast Railroad
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Street also has great potential in connecting Robersonville’s downtown with the newer
development in the northern side of the town near the exit ramp of Interstate 64.
These lots and along the sidewalks of downtown could also be sufficient to provide for a
weekly or bi-weekly Farmers Market. This would allow local farmers, artists, food
vendors, craftspeople and entrepreneurs of all types to sell their goods while promoting
the downtown area. These events would attract both residents and travelers from
outside of town.
Types of businesses that may be desired downtown include:
 Antique Shops
 Arts/Crafts Shops
 Restaurants
 Specialty/Local Product Shops- These shops might carry Anne’s House of Nuts
products or automotive souvenirs that promote the East Carolina Motor Speedway.
 Ice Cream/ Soda Fountain Shops (with possible outdoor seating).
 Interactive Stores
 Clothing Stores
 General Stores/Convenience/Dollar Stores
 Martin Community College satellite classrooms
NOTE: Shops that provide multiple functions tend to be the most successful and provide
the highest economic security. For instance, a general store with food, seating, local art,
and ice cream has a better chance of survival than one that specializes in only one of
these services.
Other businesses that should be considered are those that complement successful existing
downtown businesses. Businesses that complement, but do not directly complete, with
downtown businesses such as the Village Pharmacy, Robersonville’s Furniture Company, Cuttin’
Up, Curlz & Dots and the Barber Shop are important for a successful downtown. For instance,
those coming to Robersonville for the furniture store could utilize a floor and carpet store
nearby or a home improvements store. Robersonville’s Furniture Company’s existing customer
base would help these complimenting businesses grow their customer base. These
complimenting businesses in return help the existing businesses as they create a “one stop
shop.” Furniture in close proximity to flooring is a naturally complementing business paring.
Robersonville’s downtown has an advantage over Williamston and many small towns in the
area in that Robersonville does not have a Wal-Mart or other large “big-box” franchise. This
more easily allows a convenience or general store to succeed in downtown Robersonville.
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Robersonville’s downtown alliance should also focus on the design of the downtown area. This
includes beautification of the Main Street section as well as elements that promote safety and
security. Many studies have confirmed that people feel safer and more secure in areas that are
properly lit and when others are present. Though Downtown Robersonville has lighting,
additional lighting would produce a more inviting environment for businesses looking to locate
to the area. For those who work in the downtown area or are returning home by travelling
through the downtown area in the evening, better illumination would make the area more
appealing. Seating and benches are also vital element to attract downtown usage. Property
owners of vacant buildings downtown and the focus group should also form a partnership with
the Martin County Arts Council and local art teachers to display their projects and pieces across
the windows of the vacant buildings. This encourages residents to stroll through the downtown
area and makes the empty property more visually pleasing for potential clients.
The Eight Principles of Main Street
While the Main Street approach provides the format for successful revitalization,
implementation of the four-point approach is based on eight principles that pertain to all areas
of the revitalization effort.
 Comprehensive: Downtown revitalization is a complex process and cannot be
accomplished through a single project. For successful long-term revitalization, a
comprehensive approach must be utilized.
 Incremental: Small projects and simple activities lead to a more sophisticated
understanding of the revitalization process and help to develop skills so that more
complex problems can be addressed and more ambitious projects can be undertaken.
 Self- Help: Local leaders must have the desire and will to make the project successful.
Continued and long-term success depends upon the involvement and commitment of
the community.
 Public/Private Partnership: Both the public and private sectors have a vital interest in
the economic health and physical viability of the downtown. Each sector has a role to
play, and each must understand the other’s strengths and limitations so that an
effective partnership can be forged.
 Identifying and Capitalizing on Existing Assets: Business districts must capitalize on the
assets that make them unique. Every district has unique qualities, distinctive buildings
and a human scale that give people a sense of belonging. These local assets must serve
as the foundation for all aspects of the revitalization program.
 Quality: Quality must be emphasized in every aspect of the revitalization program. This
applies equally to each element of the program, from storefront design to promotional
campaigns to education programs.
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 Change: Changes in attitude and practice are necessary to improve current economic
conditions. Public support for change will build as the program grows.
 Implementation/Orientation: Activity creates confidence in the program, and ever
greater levels of participation. Frequent, visible changes are a reminder that the
revitalization effort is under way. Small projects at the beginning of the program pave
the way for larger activities as the revitalization effort matures.
(NC Downtown Development Association Report for Williamston 1996)
Plan of Work:
 Vision: Robersonville’s Improvement Committee must come up with a vision or “tag
line” to promote their downtown, as well as the entire town. One example Vision
Statement comes from Kinston: “Downtown Kinston, nestled along the banks of the
Neuse River, serves as the gateway to Eastern North Carolina. Our appreciation of
history guides our future and promotes the magic to grow business, recreation and the
arts.” Robersonville’s statement should be catered to represent the geography, history,
present and future of the town and the downtown region.
 Mission: Once the vision is complete, a mission statement must be defined to clearly
articulate the purpose and role of the organization. It should clearly explain what the
organization is and does, introduce the participants, explain where the organization
operates or intends to restructure, why the organization exists and articulate the result
they hope to achieve.
The Fuquay-Varina Mission Statement provides an example: “Fuquay-Varina
Downtown, Inc. promotes the thriving business and residential historic districts. We
promote preservation, educate the public, support the business environment and grow
opportunity.”
 Goals, Objectives, Strategies and Tasks: Define what the organization is trying to
achieve, their mission and the community’s vision for downtown. The objectives define
“why” you are trying to achieve the goals, that is, the purpose of your efforts in
achieving your organization’s goals. Strategies lay out “how” you are going to achieve
each goal and objective - the plan for accomplishing each goal and objective. Tasks list
“what” specific actions you are going to take - the step by step plan for accomplishing
each strategy. Examples of each are provided below.
NOTE: A “Plan of Work” template is available in the Appendix of this document.
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Example of Goals from Lexington, NC:
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Organization - Building cooperation and communication between all uptown
stakeholders.
Promotion - Bring people uptown.
Design - Create an appealing uptown atmosphere.
Economic Restructuring - Work Towards 100% utilization of space in uptown
Lexington that supports the vision.
Examples of Objectives based on the Goals from Lexington:
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Organization - Build interest, involvement, teamwork, desirability and profitability
in uptown Lexington.
Promotion - Increase business and uptown investment.
Design - Attract business, uptown living and patrons.
Economic Restructuring - Create a platform for infill, economic growth and success.
Examples of Strategies from Lexington that accomplish the design and objective (Design- create
an appealing uptown atmosphere. Objective- Attract businesses, uptown living and patrons):
1. Develop concept and funding plan to redesign the square by March 2012 with the goal
of completing construction by June, 2013.
2. Develop a streetscape expansion plan and develop and execute a funding plan by March
2013.
3. Identify, plan for and develop uptown space for community gatherings and special
events by May 2013.
Examples of Tasks from Garner, NC:
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Task
Responsibility
Cost / Time
Review Plan of Work to identify resource,
volunteer and partner needs and
opportunities.
Compile resources, volunteers and
partner needs identified with board and
determine best strategy to engage them.
Review existing volunteer pool and match
interest with needs.
Promote resource, volunteer and partner
Board of
Directors
$0 / 1 Hour
John Hodges;
Board of
Directors
John Hodges
$0 / 5 Hours February, 2011
Board of
$0 / 5 Hours February, 2011
6
$0 / 1 Hour
Completion
Date
January, 2011
February, 2011
5
6
needs and opportunities to the
community.
Develop volunteer job descriptions,
agreements and training materials.
Conduct Volunteer Orientation and
Training Workshop
directors;
John Hodges
John Hodges
John Hodges;
Board of
Directors
$0 / 40
March, 2011
Hours
$0 / 4 Hours March, 2011
NOTE: More information can be found in the North Carolina Main Street Basic Training
conference book from October 24th to the 26th 2012 held in Clayton, NC. This booklet will be
available at Robersonville’s Town Hall. This particular information can be found in Section 2Organization- in the Planning for Downtown Success part. Even more information can be found
on the CD attached to the booklet under Organization- Planning for Downtown’s Success.
PART II
Organization/Non- Profit Status
The Robersonville Improvement Committee should obtain a non-profit status. The main three
non-profit statuses for main streets associations are listed below. Each have pro’s and con’s
though none is decidedly better or worse than the other. Choosing the best non-profit status
depends entirely on the preferences, roles and desires of the organization. It is advisable to
speak with a lawyer in determining which non-profit status is best for your particular
organization and to determine the best way to obtain the certification.
The 501(c)(3) - This status forces the organization to remain focused on its charitable and
educational roles. A (c)(3) is an organization that can demonstrate that a certain part of their
support (usually 1/3 on average) comes from the general public or a unit of government; or
organizations formed to raise money for a specific school, hospital, governmental unit or
publically supported charity.
Pros:
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Gives separation from any perception of government control.
Most foundations make grants available to 501 (c)(3) organizations.
Private individuals can deduct contributions.
Forces the organization to remain focused on its charitable and educational roles.
Non-Profits can offer creative alternatives for benefits.
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Cons:
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Organization must be conscientious of monitoring their activities.
The Work plan must adhere to IRS compliance responsibilities.
Cannot market specific businesses in a downtown business district.
Non-profits historically do not have the most stable human or financial resources.
Fundraising can be challenging if Mission, Vision and Goals are not clearly
communicated.
You cannot have members - you can only have “friends” of the organization.
The 501 ( c) (4) and ( c) (6) are models that are exempt from paying both federal and state
income tax, though donations made to the organization are deductible by contributors on their
personal federal income taxes.
Downtown organizations with 501(c)(6) statuses are typically trade and professional
organizations and can include Business Leagues, Home Builders Associations, Chambers of
Commerce, Real Estate Boards, etc.
Pros:
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Enables businesses to deduct a portion of their membership dues and contributions
to the organization.
Easy to obtain (easier that 501(c)(3)).
Scrutinized less closely by the IRS (typically)
Can conduct an unlimited amount of lobbying on behalf of its members.
Feel they can represent their private partners (business owners/property owners)
more freely.
Cons:
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Not eligible for most grant opportunities.
Donations are not completely deductible; individual donations are not deductible.
Fundraising can be challenging if Mission, Vision & Goals are not clearly
communicated.
Tendency to only market business members.
Downtown organizations with 501(c) (4) statuses are generally created to further the common
good and general welfare of the people of the community. Examples can include civic groups,
downtown improvement associations, and social action organizations.
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Pros:
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Can serve a wider range of beneficiaries than the (c)(6).
Easy to obtain.
Less closely scrutinized by the IRS.
Feel they can represent their private partners (business owners/property owners)
more freely.
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Same as (c)(6)
There is no tax benefit for anyone.
Cons:
Tools for Downtown Redevelopment/North Carolina Main Street Program:
Before embarking into what needs to be done, there should be a clear understanding of the
kinds of “tools” available to assist in downtown redevelopment in Robersonville. There are
several basic tools that can help with economic restructuring.
The most important tool and asset for downtown restoration is for Robersonville to become a
member of North Carolina’s Small Main Street Program. This program does not provide
funding but does provide a great deal of assistance including training, designs, studies, and onsite assistance and evaluation. The program can help Robersonville in almost all aspects of
their downtown revitalization plan and only requests food, travel and board reimbursements
for much of their work. Becoming a member of the program is rather competitive - some
towns become members the first year they apply, while some towns wait years before they are
accepted.
To become a member of the program, a local governmental representative (typically the town
manager or planner) must be present at their Small Town Pre-Application Workshop which is
typically held around April. Attending this workshop will make Robersonville eligible for
applying to the program and educates the town on the steps one must take to apply for
membership. For more information: Log onto www.ncdda.org, contact Michael Trufant
(Michael@brevardnc.org - 828 384-2330) or contact the Assistant Director of NC’s Main Street
Center Teresa Watts (twatts@nccommerce.com - 919 571-4900 ext. 235).
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Below is a list of other tools for downtown revitalization.
Tax Credits: Robersonville’s downtown needs to become listed as a historic district. Tax credits
for historic rehabilitation are a tremendous asset for those properties within downtown listed
on the National Register District. For income producing structures, a 20% North Carolina and a
20% federal investment tax credit are available for rehabilitated historic properties. In effect,
federal and state credits reduce the cost of a certified rehabilitation of an income-producing
historic structure by 40%. For non-income producing structures, a 30% state tax credit is
awarded to historic listed structures, though no credit is available from the federal government.
Façade Grants: Façade (store front improvement) grants provided by the Town of
Robersonville would help attract businesses to downtown and send the message that a
redevelopment effort is underway.
Small Business Center at Martin Community College: This office is a resource for starting
businesses off in the right direction and pointing them to all of the resources and training
available in this area.
The Small Business Technology Development Center (SBTDC): The SBTDC in Greenville
is the administrator of SBA loans and other valuable services, such as counseling and business
planning. They can help a business define its goals and how it wants to grow. Old business
practices that worked when the downtown area was the only available shopping no longer work
in today’s competitive business climate. Businesses should seek assistance in reevaluating how
they do business and the SBTDC is a reliable and proven source with whom they should
maintain a close relationship.
Small Elements Can Go A Long Way:
Some beautification elements of Robersonville’s Main Street such as trees, attractive light poles
and fountains can cost a great amount of money, but should be considered in future plans.
Should a large grant be obtained or significant increases in the town revenues occur, these
more costly elements can improve downtown aesthetics significantly. Nonetheless, smaller
expenditures now can greatly improve the appearance of downtown Robersonville. For
instance, tattered brick walls and buildings can be restored and painted. The downtown
already has a rather colorful character and can be expanded upon through simply the cost of
paint or canvas style awnings. In the appendix of this document, a picture of Dumar.com’s
website shows coordinated street furniture. This website sells various street elements such as
trash cans, planters and benches that match and complement one another. A few examples are
listed below:
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Selling Elements and PartnershipsFlower Pots:
With the lack of governmental funds and resources within the past decade, many towns and
cities are relying on partnerships with organizations and surrounding businesses. The large and
small planters shown in many of the following photos are relatively small cost elements that
can greatly beautify the downtown area. Many towns have sold flower pots and other street
elements by applying plaques that give credit to the benefactor. Many localities have engaged
local Garden Clubs to perform the task of planting and up-keep of downtime flowers and
bushes.
Outdoor Seating:
The following image shows a bench that was purchased by an individual within their
community. These elements may be purchased by local businesses as advertisements which
also demonstrate their community support. Around many downtowns, you will find elements
purchased by organizations to commemorate someone special or a special event.
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Examples of commemorative plaques:
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Carytown- Richmond, Virginia: (next two photos) - Colorful awnings, seating, attractive sign,
flower planters.
(Graduation Speech n.d.)
(Wilson 2010)
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Other potential inexpensive improvements are shown below:
(Through a collaborative effort, Robersonville’s Garden Club may be interested in assisting the
upkeep and selected plants. This is currently being done in Windsor, NC.)
Downtown Entrance Sign with Flower Pots:
(Brown 2011)
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Local art and historical images - Information displayed in vacant buildings:
(Could be hosted by Martin County Art Council or local schools.)
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Town Utility Pole Banners:
Benches and large planters:
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Downtown entrance light posts and Welcome Signs:
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Downtown Outdoor Dining:
By extending the sidewalk and slanting the edges, this would provide a place for outdoor dining
and parking during peak hours. The three designs below give an example of how this may look.
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Notice the “A-framed sign” which allows passers-by to know that the restaurant is open.
Murals:
There are many muralists throughout North Carolina, the nation and perhaps within the county
available for hire.
Murals could portray:
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Native American history-
Racing-
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Farming-
They may also portray the significance of the train stop, peanuts, or matters or local importance
or history. Perhaps a portrait of Henry Roberson, known as the “father of Robersonville”, could
be appropriate.
On-street murals between the Interstate 64 ramps and the Downtown Main Street area would
beautify the area while attracting visitors and residents through Downtown. One such example
is shown below:
Intersection Compass Street Mural-
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Attracting People to Downtown:
One of the initial concerns of Robersonville should be attracting those coming off of Interstate
64. Information that the Robersonville downtown is “just down the road” should be available
to motorists to entice them downtown. It is also important to connect the new development
with the older downtown section.
The area between the exit for Interstate 64 and the Robersonville downtown could be
enhanced by planting trees. This would beautify the area and allow visitors to know that there
is something worth seeing up the road. Grant money for such a project can be obtained
through North Carolina Forest Services Urban & Community Forestry Grant Program lead by the
North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Customer Services.
Downtown festivals like Williamston’s Stampede, Jamesville’s Herring Festival, and
Washington’s Smoke on the Water festival are great ways to attract businesses, visitors and
local residents to downtown. Closing downtown to vehicular traffic and allowing street vending
and musical performances can entice entire families. These can be themed and scheduled
throughout the year. It is advised to have festivals during months in which sales are lowest and
not around the holidays as people are busy and often out of town. Establishing a promotion
and organization committee for these events is tremendously beneficial. An example of what
downtown Robersonville might look like during a festival is provided below.
Three Keys to Successful Events: 1) music, 2) food, and 3) activities for all ages
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Façade Improvement:
As shown in the photo below, the Hospital Thrift Store’s bricks were exposed. Windows and a
blue canvas awning were installed creating a much more attractive building. Some of the other
examples below show how façades can be improved with just new paint and new light fixtures.
(Before and after photos)
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Promoting downtown and the Robersonville Improvement Committee:
Williamston’s Downtown Inc. organization sends out a monthly letter called the Downtown
Herald to inform their members and the community about their upcoming meetings, events
and plans. The members or “friends” of the organization also receive a larger and more indepth quarterly document through the mail from the organization. Others who are not
members of the organization but are interested receive the information through e-mailed
letters to keep them up to date on current and future issues. Robersonville’s Improvement
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Committee should also mail and e-mail out a similar letter to interested parties. This will create
a stronger organization and increase participation and interest.
Williamston’s Downtown Inc. also has brochures places in various locations in Williamston
inviting new individual and business members, donors, sponsors and support in general.
Developing an image and brand for downtown should aim to promote downtown at both a
local and regional level. Creating graphic images, slogans and taglines can be included in
newspaper and magazine postings as well as on signs, websites, social media websites,
newsletters, annual reports and advertisements. Below are examples from two North Carolina
towns.
Conclusion:
There are many different routes available to Robersonville to beautify their downtown.
Williamston, NC’s Director of Planning and Development, Brent Kanipe, advises that the first
activity is for the Robersonville’s Improvement Commission or a similar group to obtain their
501 (C)(3) non-profit status. The steps, cost and other information on obtaining non-profit
status can be found below under the heading “Non Profit Attainment: Initial Filings for North
Carolina Nonprofit Organizations”.
Many next steps are available, though I would recommend that Robersonville apply for the
Urban and Community forest Grant Program administered by the NC forest Service. This
money could be used to hire a Landscape Architect to develop a plan for the corridor between
Interstate 64’s entrance ramps and the downtown area.
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PART 3:
SWOT Analysis for Robersonville’s Downtown:
Strengths
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Ample amount of on and off street parking.
Bank of Robersonville, Town Hall Buildings and the church- architecturally and aesthetically
attractive.
East Carolina Motor Speedway/Anne’s House of Nuts – important to the town.
Location - 20 minutes from Greenville; 10 minutes from Williamston; near Interstate 64.
No big-box stores- Allows for small business to be more successful.
Library, police department, fire and rescue department, pharmacy and Town Hall.
A county high school.
St. James Place Museum
Buildings have multiple floors - Good for possible apartments and extended business space.
Few abandoned buildings- many that are can be renovated.
Community support and involvement.
Robersonville is rather small in land area size- allows for convenient trips to downtown.
Attractive Pocket Park:
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Bank of Robersonville- Beautiful building on the corner of downtown-
Weaknesses
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Minimal downtown elements such as trees, benches, street lights, and art.
Broken or boarded up windows.
Lack of bike lanes or bike racks.
Empty buildings in need of repair.
Some buildings may not be able to be repaired due to cost or structural degradation.
Utility poles through downtown.
Lack of outdoor seating and outdoor dining
Downtown may need more lighting to improve perception of safety and visibility.
Perception of elevated instances of crime even though the citydata.com statistics show the
crime rate as average.
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Unattractive wall with boarded windows.
Pavement missing in sidewalk.
Empty buildings or aged signage.-
Opportunities
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Share the road signs for bicycle users and bike racks to lock up bikes.
Downtown living - On upper floors downtown.
Not all buildings are being utilized -allows for economic growth.
Some buildings have unattractive exteriors - allows for creative renovation.
Sometimes paint is all that’s needed. Often attractive business signs and new light
fixtures alone can make a downtown more attractive.
Being a historically railroad town, Robersonville has the opportunity to showcase its
history and use it as an attraction. (Train statue, train mural, application in business
names such as “Train Stop Restaurant”.)
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Building in great location- great opportunity for a new business-
Open lot for activities/ festivals and events- (Possible future park or picnic area.)
Great opportunity for a mural:
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Future Basketball Court/ Bicycle and Skate Park/ Skating Rink
Great open alley way with potential:
Before
After
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Threats
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Sidewalks are small; difficult for outdoor dining and seating.
Broken windows (broken window theory); though there is little trash, the same may
result from the trash that does exist. Broken windows and existing trash may result
in further damage and litter.
The national economic hardship may further hurt Robersonville.
Unattractive, inaccessible & dangerous sidewalk:
Trash:
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These are attractive shops, but are adversely affected by the look of the exterior. (Attractive
signs and lights on the upper part of the facade can greatly improve these shops aesthetically.
Exterior walls can be repaired and painted to also improve the looks.)
Attractive area of downtown. However, the train tracks make it difficult and dangerous for
pedestrians to cross to other shops. Stairs and a handicap accessible place to cross the tracks in
this section would help.
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APPENDIX:
Grant funds can be used to:
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Provide educational programs and technical assistance to communities, individuals and
organizations;
Establish demonstration projects to illustrate the benefits of forest cover and trees within
an urban setting and solve a specifically described problem;
Enhance the technical skills of individuals involved in the planning, development and
maintenance of urban and community forests;
Promote volunteerism, multi-cultural awareness, and involvement of non-profit
organizations in implementing urban and community forestry programs, particularly in
communities where participation in urban and community forestry efforts has been
limited;
Assist in meeting the requirements for Tree City USA and Tree City Growth Awards.
Possible Partnerships


ECU’s School of Art and Design: To come up with ideas and renderings for downtown
enhancement. They can also create interior designs or show how the interior could be
enhanced through a reuse concept. These images or concepts can be displayed in the
windows of the buildings to show the building’s possibilities.
ECU’s Urban and Regional Planning Department: Main Street Revitalization efforts and
beautification efforts in most cities and towns result from a combination of a non-profit
interest group, governmental workers/planners and others within the community who
share an interest.
Businesses, Organizations and individuals throughout the region.
URBAN & COMMUNITY FORESTRY GRANT PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Urban & Community Forestry Grant Program assists local governments and non-profit
groups with projects which will lead to a more effective and efficient management of urban and
community forests and to improving public understanding of the benefits of preserving existing
tree cover in communities.
Grants are awarded on an annual basis through the USDA Forest Service and are administered
by the NC Forest Service, Urban & Community Forestry Program. The program awards
matching funds to encourage citizen involvement in creating and sustaining urban and
33
community forestry programs. Grant funds may be awarded to any unit of local or state
government, public educational institutions, approved non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations and
other tax-exempt organizations. First-time municipal applicant and municipalities seeking
Tree City USA status are given priority for funding.
Grant funds can be used to:





Provide educational programs and technical assistance to communities, individuals and
organizations;
Establish demonstration projects to illustrate the benefits of forest cover and trees within an
urban setting and solve a specifically described problem;
Enhance the technical skills of individuals involved in the planning, development and
maintenance of urban and community forests;
Promote volunteerism, multi-cultural awareness, and involvement of non-profit organizations
in implementing urban and community forestry programs, particularly in communities where
participation in urban and community forestry efforts has been limited;
Assist in meeting the requirements for Tree City USA and Tree City Growth Awards.
Annual Grant Timeline:





Grant cycle opens January 1 of each year.
Grant workshops offered January-February of each year.
Grant applications/proposals due by March 31 at 5:00pm
Grant awards determined and recipients notified early to mid-July.
Grant projects begin September 1 and must be completed by August 31.
Grant requests should range between $1,000 and $15,000. Exceptions are described under
Special Funding Category within the Request for Proposal. Funding requests for more than
$15,000 will be reviewed only after consultation with the Grant Administrator prior to
application. Funding is for programs, projects or activities not currently being funded and cannot
be used to substitute for existing funds. Funds may be used within existing programs to initiate
new program development or program expansion. Funding is not available for entertainment,
food and beverages, computers, tree maintenance, or construction and landscape
supplies/equipment.
The Urban & Community Forestry Grant Program funds must be matched equally (dollar for
dollar) with non-federal funds. Match may be in the form of cash purchase or in-kind
contributions, and all such contributions must come from non-federal sources. Matching funds
for this project may not be used as a match for any other federal cost-share project and must be
specifically related to the proposed project. Documentation of all matching support must be
maintained and submitted with reimbursement.
34
Partnership, Funding and Assistance:
The North Carolina Main Street Center of the Department of Commerce oversees the North
Carolina Main Street and Small Town Street Programs. These programs do not provide
funding, but do help with tasks such as organizing and marketing themselves, analyzing their
economies and designing façade renovations, small parks and the like. These services are free,
however, participating towns are required to reimburse the programs for travel and other
expenses.
Federal Programs
The following federal programs and private funding sources represent a sample of the resources
available. For additional sources consult A guide to Funding Resources:
http://nal.usda.gov/ric/ricpubs/fundguide.html. This online guide contains links to numerous
funding sources including federal, state, and private funding databases, state foundation guides,
and grant writing resources and information.
Empowerment Zones/Enterprise Communities, http://www.ezec.gov. Also known as EZ/ECs,
these zones are setup to assist rural underserved, high poverty areas in developing needed
programs and services.
Economic Development Administration, http://www.eda.gov/, provides assistance to rural
communities through a variety of programs including the Public Works and Economic
Development Facilities Program.
State Community Development Block Grant Program provides eligible communities with
annual direct grants that they can use for community projects.
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/communitydevelopment/programs/stateadmin/index.cfm

Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) empowers States, communities,
and other stakeholders in economic development to work together in a timely manner to
prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. With certain legal
exclusions and additions, the term `brownfield site' means real property, the expansion,
redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential
presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.
http://www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/mmatters.htm
 Brownfields Tax Incentive removes many of the financial disincentives preventing the
cleanup and reuse of blighted property." http://www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/bftaxinc.htm
 National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT)
444 North Capitol St., NW
Suite 397
Washington, DC 20001-1202
202-624-3550
Email: natat@sso.org
Web: http://www.natat.org
35
Provides technical assistance, educational services, and public policy support to local
government officials of small communities across the country. Conducts research and
develops public policy recommendations to help improve the quality of life in small
communities.
1. MAIN STREET GRANTS
Main Street grants are sponsored by the Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD). Recipients may use these grants to revitalize downtown districts of eligible
communities by preserving the design and architecture of buildings in "main street" areas
to maintain their historic character. Funds are also used to convert unused commercial
buildings into affordable rental properties. Local governments in areas with fewer than
50,000 residents and 100 public housing units are eligible to apply for these grants.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street SW
Washington, DC 20410
202-708-1112
hud.gov
2. COMMUNITY ENTITLEMENT GRANTS
HUD also sponsors community entitlement grants to help finance revitalization efforts in
eligible areas. Recipients may use these grants to purchase real estate property or to
demolish and construct residential and commercial buildings. They may also use the
funds to build or improve public facilities, roads and neighborhood centers as well as to
support programs to help businesses create and retain jobs. Cities with more than 50,000
and counties with more than 200,000 residents may apply for these grants.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street SW
202-708-1112; hud.gov
COMMUNITY FACILITIES GRANT PROGRAM
Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Community Facilities Grant
program provides grants to areas with fewer than 20,000 residents to finance
revitalization projects. Recipients may use grants for the construction and renovation of
buildings for health care, public and community services and public safety. They may
also use grant funds to purchase equipment required to operate these facilities. Eligible
applicants for these grants include municipalities, counties and tribal government
agencies as well as nonprofit organizations. Applicants in communities with lower
36
population and income levels will receive higher financial assistance. Grant recipients
must cover at least 25 percent of the approved project costs with funding from other
sources.
Housing and Community Facilities Programs National Office
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Room 5014 South Building
14th Street and Independence Avenue SW
202-720-9619
rurdev.usda.gov
Non Profit attainment:
Initial Filings for North Carolina Nonprofit Organizations
1. TO INCORPORATE IN NORTH CAROLINA
Submit Articles of Incorporation to:
Department of the Secretary of State
Corporations Division
PO Box 29622
Raleigh, NC 27626-0622
Information: (919) 807-2225
Web Site: www.sosnc.com/
Filing Fee: $60
2. TO OBTAIN 501(C)(3) TAX-EXEMPT STATUS
Submit Form 1023, Application for Recognition of Exemption to:
Note new address:
Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 12192
Covington, KY 41012-0192
Forms: (800) 829-3676
Web Site: www.irs.gov/charities
Filing Fee: $850 ($400 if revenues less than $10,000/year)
For more information on filing fees, see the IRS website.
37
3. TO OBTAIN NORTH CAROLINA INCOME TAX EXEMPTION
Once a nonprofit incorporates with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of State will
notify the Department of Revenue of this fact. Subsequently, the Department of Revenue
will mail a questionnaire to the nonprofit organization which should be completed and
returned to the Department of Revenue along with a copy of the organization's Bylaws
and Articles of Incorporation. For more information refer to the North Carolina
Department of Revenue's publication, State Taxation and Nonprofit Organizations or
contact the Department of Revenue at:
Department of Revenue
PO Box 25000
Raleigh, NC 27640
Web Site: www.dornc.com
4. TO OBTAIN NORTH CAROLINA SALES AND USE TAX EXEMPTION
Nonprofit organizations must pay sales and use taxes in North Carolina, and then apply
for a refund once every six months (June 30 th and December 31 st ). To apply for a
refund, submit a letter requesting nonprofit status that includes the organization's name,
EIN, and a description of activities along with Form E-585 to the address below. For
more information refer to the North Carolina Department of Revenue's publication, State
Taxation and Nonprofit Organizations or contact the Department of Revenue at:
Department of Revenue
PO Box 25000
Web Site: www.dornc.com
Filing Fee: $0
5. TO REGISTER WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA SECRETARY OF STATE
If planning to solicit funds in North Carolina, submit the application to register as a
charitable organization along with Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, list of officers and
directors, IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter, most recent IRS Form 990, copies of all
contracts with professional fund raisers, and a narrative describing the organization's
fund-raising plan to:
Department of the Secretary of State
Charitable Solicitation Licensing Section
PO Box 29622
38
Web Site: www.sosnc.com/
Filing Fee: $0-$200 (depending on revenues)
Exemptions from this filing are granted to certain educational institutions, and hospitals.
Refer to the Secretary of State's publication “Incorporating Your Non-Profit in North
Carolina” for details.
Notes:
The Unified Registration Statement (URS) form may be filed in place of this application.
This can be found at the following website: www.multistatefiling.org
(Nonprofit Law Resource Library 2012)
(Suggestions from Williamston’s Technical Assistance Team’s Report from The North
Carolina Downtown Development Association.)
39
Plan of Work Template:
Name of Org Plan of Work -2012-2013
Vision:
Mission:
Implementation Strategy: (Name of Town) is a designated NC Main Street community that uses the National Trust for Historic
Preservation’s Main Street Four-Point Approach® which includes: organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring to
implement a downtown revitalization initiative.
ORGANIZATION
I. Goal
PROMOTION
II. Goal
DESIGN
ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING
III. Goal:
IV. Goal:
Objective -
Objective -
Objective -
Objective -
Strategies –
Strategies –
Strategies –
Strategies –
1.
1.
1.
1.
2.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
3.
40
Organization
I.
Goal:
Objective:
Organization Strategy:


Completed

Task
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
41
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Completed
Task
Responsibility
In-House-Outsource
Cost / Time
Partners / Assistance
To Be completed
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Completed

Task
42
Promotion
II.
Goal:
Objective:
Promotion Strategy:

Completed

Task
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
43
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Promotion Strategy:
Completed
Task
Responsibility
In-House-Outsource
Cost / Time
To Be completed
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Promotion Strategy:
Completed

Task
44
Design:
Goal:
Objective:
Design Strategy:
Completed

Task
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
45
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Design Strategy:
Completed
Task
Responsibility
In-House-Outsource
Cost / Time
To Be completed
Design Strategy:
Completed

Task
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
46
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Economic Restructuring
Goal:
Objective:
Economic Restructuring Strategy:

Completed

Task
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
47
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Completed
Task
Responsibility
In-House-Outsource
Cost / Time
To Be completed
Responsibility
In-HouseOutsource
Cost / Time
Partners /
Assistance
To Be completed
Completed

Task
EHP – 021609 – NC Department of Commerce, Urban Development Division, 919-571-4900 X 226
48
Stakeholders/ Partners:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Develop a list of your community’s stakeholders.
Identify individual leaders within the community.
Diverse group of men and women from public and private sectors represented.
Age and ethnic diversity represented.
Geographic sectors of downtown and the community at large are represented.
Examples of Stakeholders:







Local and Downtown Property Owners.
Local and Downtown Business Owners.
Town Officials.
Town Staff.
County Elected Officials and Staff.
Preservation or Historical Association.
Utility Company
*
*
*
*
*
*
Chamber of Commerce.
Business Association.
Arts Council.
Beautification Initiative Representation.
Small Business Center Representation.
Financial Institutions
49
*
*
*
*
*
*
Realtors
Local Schools and Colleges
Students & Senior Adults
Churches
Downtown Residents & Users
Employment Centers
Sources of Revenue:
Having multiple sources of revenue provide for more financial security for the organization and
expands the potential of the organization. Fundraising also builds ownership by allowing more
people to get involved with the downtown revitalization project. Some sources of revenue
include1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Government
Special Tax Assessments
Sponsorships/ Selling Elements for Advertisement.
Earned Income/ Special Events
Grants
Signature Fundraising Events
Membership/ Donors/ Bequests
Interest
Dumor.com Coordinating Street Furniture:
50
Example of Signage and Way Finding:
Typically two to three different signature city designed signs is all that is needed around town.
The example from Morganton below shows the signature signs they have chosen. Though they
have more than three primary signs, this is a good example. They have a primary and secondary
entrance sign, a downtown gateway sign as well as directional/informational signage.
51
Funding and Resources for Downtown:
Contact agencies directly for more information
on their program specifics.
PROGRAM
PURPOSE
GRANT
MATCH
CONTACT
The 1772 Foundation
The mission of The 1772 Foundation is to preserve and enhance American
historic entities with particular interest in farming, industrial development,
transportation and unusual historical buildings. The Foundation provides
support for restoration projects throughout the United States in order to
preserve our architectural and cultural history for future generations. Strong
local support is a prerequisite for funding; those projects that have secured
matching funds are most favorably considered. Organizations must have
501(c)3 status. No grants are made for schools, churches, operating
expenses, management fees, or professional fees. Focus areas for which
NC organizations are eligible to apply are agriculture and sustainable
food systems and revolving loan funds for historic properties.
$15,000 to $50,000
Preferred
inquiries@1772foundation.org or
http://www.1772foundation.org
Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation
Sources of Financial
Assistance for Historic
Preservation Projects
The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) is an independent
federal agency that promotes the preservation, enhancement, and
productive use of our nation's historic resources, and advises the President
and Congress on national historic preservation policy.
technical assistance
Andy Warhol Foundation
for the Visual Arts
Appalachian Regional
Commission (ARC)
The purpose of the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts is to foster
innovative artistic expression and the creative process by supporting
cultural organizations that, in turn, support artists and their work. The
Foundation is focused primarily on encouraging work of a challenging and
experimental nature, while noting that the interpretation of those terms may
vary from place to place and culture to culture. Grants are provided to
curatorial programs at museums, artists' organizations, and other cultural
institutions to originate innovative and scholarly presentations of
contemporary visual arts. Projects may include exhibitions, catalogues, and
other relevant activities. Calls for proposals twice a year with March 1 and
September 1 deadlines.
ARC funds are awarded to projects that address the four goals identified by
ARC in its strategic plan, increase jobs, build capacity, strengthen
infrastructure and updating Appalachia's highway system. and
demonstrating measurable results. ARC focuses its resources on
distressed counties and distressed areas within the 13-state Appalachian
Region. 29 western NC counties fall into this region. They offer standard
programming grants and sometimes have funds available for specific
special projects.
52
http://www.achp.gov/funding.html
award ceiling not specified
not
specified
http://www.warholfoundation.org/grant/o
verview.html
amounts vary by grant;
grants are originated at the
state level.
Preferred
ARC State Program Manager,
ocollier@nccommerce.com, (919) 5714900 General program information at
http://www.arc.gov
Applebee's
Dining to Donate: Nonprofit organizations can hold Dining to Donate
fundraising events at Applebee's restaurants. Ten percent of guest checks
that accompany event vouchers are donated back to the charitable
nonprofit organization.
ArtPlace
A collaboration of top national foundations, the National Endowment for the
Arts and various federal agencies to accelerate creative placemaking
across the U.S. Letter of inquiry required for grant process.
For 2012, a new round of
funding will be announced in
September. A webinar on
developing a letter of inquiry
is downloadable from the
website.
BB&T Foundation
Supports various community-based initiatives.
varies
unknown
Contact your local BB&T branch in your
community.
amounts vary
n/a
http://www.bankofamerica.com/foundati
on
Bank of America
Charitable Foundation
Best Buy Consumer
Electronics Recycling
Grant
Bikes Belong Coalition
Programs include the Neighborhood Builders and Local Heroes
components of its Neighborhood Excellence Initiative. In 2009, the
foundation allocates funds globally to the initiative, which is designed to
recognize, nurture, and reward organizations and local heroes helping to
strengthen and revitalize their communities in forty-five of the bank's major
markets. Neighborhood Builders program provides $200,000 in unrestricted
grant funding in addition to leadership training for two local nonprofit
organizations working to promote vibrant neighborhoods. The Local Heroes
program provides recognition of five community heroes whose
achievements and leadership on local issues contribute significantly to
neighborhood vitality. Recipients direct a $5K contribution to the eligible
nonprofit of their choice.
Designed to help provide more environmentally responsible electronics
recycling opportunities for consumers across the country. Program should
be hosted by program hosted by nonprofit organizations, cities, counties, or
public-private partnerships.
Fundable projects include paved bike paths and rail-trails as well as
mountain bike trails, bike parks, BMX facilities, and large-scale bicycle
advocacy initiatives. Should apply in the facility category, preferably
partnering with a local bike advocacy group.
53
n/a
http://www.artplaceamerica.org/loi/
http://e4partners.com/grant_application
_intro.htm
$500 to $1,000 per event
Up to $10,000
Quarterly cycle,
http://www.bikesbelong.org/
node/11968
Contact your local Applebee's general
manager for more information.
None
required,
but ability
to
leverage
partnershi
ps must
be
demonstra
ted
http://www.bikesbelong.org/grants
Blue Cross Blue Shield
of NC Foundation
Healthy Active
Communities Grant
Open to 501c3 non-profits. Target populations must either be located in a
rural county or be a high-risk, low-income population in an urban county.
Proposal should address at least one of the following results: increase
physical activity; increase access to and consumption of healthy foods;
develop a plan to address physical activity and/or healthy eating in the
community. Should use strategies the impact both the built and policy
environment in their projects. There is also a small grant (up to $5K) for
equipment only relating to acquiring equipment that would increase
access to healthy food and equipment to increase physical activity. The
main grant for this focus area requires a preliminary grant proposal
submission.
CCB, Inc.
Amounts vary by program;
deadlines vary by program,
check website for calendar.
None
noted, but
ability to
leverage
partnershi
ps must
be
demonstra
ted.
http://www.bcbsncfoundation.org/health
y-active-communities/
Technology solutions provider that is committed to providing incredible
savings on the hardware and software products for nonprofit, academic,
healthcare, church, or ministry organizations.
n/a
n/a
http://www.ccbnonprofits.com
The Cannon Foundation
Healthcare, higher education, and community service are the primary fields
of interest, receiving about 90% of the Foundation's funding. Other more
limited areas of interest are arts, culture, historic preservation, religion and
the environment.. Grants are made for capital improvements, project
support or special programs, generally not operational support. Will fund
outside Cabarrus County especially in rural areas.
Award varies, quarterly
cycle, see website for
calendar
yes but
percentag
e not
specified
http://thecannonfoundationinc.org; the
form is only available from the
Foundation office by request.
Coca-Cola Foundation
Their community investment priorities reflect the global and local nature of
our business and focuses on those global pillars where The Coca-Cola
Company can make a unique and sustainable difference: water
stewardship, active healthy living, community recycling, and education.
Applicants must use the online application form available at the website.
Accepts applications yearround. Award amount
varies.
Preferred
http://www.thecocacolacompany.com/citizenship/foundatio
n_coke.html
Coca-Cola / Keep
America Beautiful Bin
Grant program
The Coca Cola Co. and Keep America Beautiful have announced a new
partnership for a recycling bin grant program aimed at supporting
community recycling. Open to governments, civic organizations, schools,
and non-profit groups. Eligible activities include but are not limited to
establishing or enhancing a recycling collection program. This includes the
use of specialized containers at community events or functions, public
facilities, and programs or events conducted by applicants. Grant recipients
receive donated recycling bins and information on beginning community
recycling programs.
recipients receive recycling
bins in lieu of funding.
Spring and Fall grant cycles
Not
required
http://bingrant.org/
The Conservation Fund
ShadeFund™ Initiative
Established by The Conservation Fund with a lead grant from the U.S.
Endowment for Forestry and Communities and other corporate partners,
ShadeFund enables individuals, companies and foundations to help green
entrepreneurs across America grow their businesses and create jobs. Tax
deductible contributions to ShadeFund are pooled and lent to qualified
small green businesses nationwide. As entrepreneurs repay their loans,
those same dollars are recycled to help other entrepreneurs grow their
businesses. Green entrepreneurs who work with sustainable forestry and
forest products, small farms, eco-tourism, natural food and medicines, and
small-scale renewable energy production can apply.
Loans range from $5,000 to
$50,000.
N/A
http://www.shadefund.org/
54
The Conservation FundNatural Capital
Investment Fund
NCIF is a business loan fund that provides debt and equity financing to
small businesses located in North Carolina, Northeast Tennessee,
Southwest Virginia and West Virginia. Their mission is to provide debt and
equity financing to small and emerging natural resource-based businesses
that will advance sustainable economic development and have a positive
impact on human health and the natural environment. NCIF's business
clients are predominantly located in economically distressed rural
communities and are unable to access capital from traditional sources.
Sectors of particular interest include: heritage and recreation-based
tourism, value-added and sustainable agriculture, water/wastewater
treatment, sustainable forestry and forest products, integrated waste
management, and recycling.
Loan pool
N/A
http://www.ncifund.org/
Eat Smart, Move More
NC
Supports local health departments in North Carolina in their efforts to
develop community-based interventions that encourage, promote and
facilitate physical activity and healthy eating. The purpose of the program is
to provide funding to local communities to implement strategies that
advance the goals and objectives of the Eat Smart, Move More Plan.
Up to $20K, annual cycle
announced in spring,
dependent on availability of
funds
Must
partner
with local
health
departmen
t
http://www.eatsmartmovemorenc.com/F
unding/CommunityGrants.html
EB5 Immigrant Investor
Program (US Citizen &
Immigration Services)
Created by Congress in 1990 to stimulate the U.S. economy through job
creation and capital investment by foreign investors. Under a pilot
immigration program first enacted in 1992 and regularly reauthorized since,
investments can be made directly in a job-generating commercial enterprise
and certain EB-5 visas also are set aside for investors in Regional Centers
(NC has 4 Regional Centers) designated by USCIS based on proposals
for promoting economic growth. Must create at least ten (10) full time jobs
for US workers. There are two ways to invest within the EB-5 category,
creating a new commercial enterprise or investing in a troubled business.
To qualify, one must invest or be in the process of investing at least
$1,000,000. If the investment is in a designated Targeted Employment Area
(TEA), the minimum investment requirement is $500,000.
n/a
http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/m
enuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a75
43f6d1a/?vgnextoid=facb83453d4a321
0VgnVCM100000b92ca60aRCRD&vgn
extchannel=facb83453d4a3210VgnVC
M100000b92ca60aRCRD
http://www.nccommerce.com/business/t
ools/eb-5-immigrant-investor-programtea
Electricities Smart
Communities Grant
Program
Created to help NCMPA1 and NCEMPA participants attract and retain
commercial and industrial customers. Participants are eligible to receive a
$4,000 matching grant to be used toward specific economic development
projects. They will be awarded based on the strength of the overall project
and impact to the community. Applications, available at
www.electricities.com, are accepted throughout the year and reviewed as
they are received.
Up to $4,000
match
required
http://www.electricities.com/Default/Ser
vices/EconomicDevelopment.aspx
http://www.electricities.com/Libraries/S
mart_Communities_Materials/Smart_C
ommunities_Brochure.sflb.ashx
Brenda Daniels at 800-768-7697 ext.
6363 or bdaniels@electricities.org
Electricities P4 Marketing
Grant Program
Created to assist NCEMPA and NCMPA1 Participants reach their local
communications goals. P4 provides a designated amount of money for
public power communities to promote local communities and their electric
utilities.
$1500 to $2500 based on
size of customer base
No
http://www.electricities.com/Default/Co
mmunications/PublicPowerPromotional
Program.aspx Rebecca Agner,
ragner@electricities.org,
1.800.768.7697, ext. 6334
Federal Tax Incentives
for Energy Efficiency in
Commercial Buildings
Available for existing and new commercial buildings that incorporate energy
efficiencies into the redesign/design.
varies, see website for
further details and IRS links
n/a
http://energytaxincentives.org/business/
commercial_buildings.php
55
https://www.53.com/doc/pe/pe-about54guidelines-for-grantseekers.pdf
Fifth Third Foundation Office, 38
Fountain Square Plaza MD 1090CA,
Cincinnati, OH 45263 (513) 534-4397
Fifth Third Foundation
Office
Focus on four core funding areas of community development, education,
health and human services, or arts and culture. Must begin process with
a proposal letter prior to application.
Funding levels not given
n/a
The Foundation Center /
Grant Space
A national nonprofit service organization recognized as the nation’s leading
authority on organized philanthropy, connecting nonprofits and the
grantmakers supporting them to tools, resources and information. While
there are fees involved with some of their programming/products, they offer
a number of FREE online tutorials on proposal writing, etc. Grant Space is
a service of the Foundation Center, offering information and resources that
are specifically designed to meet the needs of grant seekers based in a
social media type of platform.
Technical assistance
n/a
Georgia Pacific
Foundation
Open only to communities within a thirty (30) mile radius of a Georgia
Pacific manufacturing facility. The Foundation has identified the following
key investment areas: educational efforts; community enrichment;
environmental programs; and entrepreneurship initiatives
Applications are accepted
online January 1-Oct 31
annually, funding amounts
vary by project submitted.
None
noted.
http://www.gp.com/gpfoundation/grantpr
ocess.html
Golden LEAF Foundation
Golden LEAF has adopted a new Open Grants Program that replaced its
Annual Grants Cycle. The Open Grants Program is designed to make it
easier for applicants to submit a proposal to Golden LEAF and to make
funding opportunities available throughout the year. They award grants to
projects that promote economic growth in NC. Priority grantsmaking areas
have traditionally been agriculture, job creation, and workforce
preparedness. Additional funding for education and community assistance
initiatives complements those areas.
Must first submit a letter of
inquiry and competitive
proposals will be invited to
submit a full proposal.
None
noted but
must
involve
community
partners.
info@goldenleaf.org, 252-442-7474 or
http://www.goldenleaf.org/opengrants.ht
ml
GoldenLEAF & Self Help
Loan Fund
The Golden LEAF Loan Program at Self-Help provides loans to help small
businesses in economically-distressed, rural, and tobacco-dependent
counties in North Carolina. Any sector that creates high quality jobs will be
considered. Priority given to: Health care and health industry, construction
trades, green industries, agriculture businesses, manufacturing. Eligible
uses include start-up capital, working capital, equipment and inventory
purchases, acquisition, construction or renovation of facilities.
n/a
n/a
http://www.self-help.org/business-andnonprofit-loans/loan-products-1/goldenleaf-loan-program-1
Google™ Apps for Nonprofits
Google™ Apps offers communication, collaboration and publishing tools,
including email accounts on your organization's domain (like
jdoe@example.org). With Google Apps, your non-profit organization can
decrease its total cost of ownership and offer staff the very latest innovation
from Google™. It's quick and easy to get started even if your non-profit
doesn't have a dedicated IT staff. If you are a U.S. non-profit organization
of over 3,000 users, you are now eligible for Google™ Apps Premier Edition
at a 40% discount ($30/user/year). If your organization is under 3,000
users, you qualify for the free version of Education Edition.
Discount on services
n/a
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/non
profit/index.html
56
http://www.grantspace.org
http://
www.foundationcenter.org/getstarted
Google™ Grants
Open to 501c3 non-profits. Assists non-profits by helping them promote
their websites/organizations via advertising on Google™ through the use of
Google AdWords™ using targeted keywords for searches in setting up there
account.
essentially an In-kind
donation program that
offsets advertising costs
Federal Grant Database
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA).
Technical
assistance/Federal grant
opportunities
Home Depot Community
Impact Grants
Grants, up to $5,000, are available to registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organizations, public schools or tax-exempt public service agencies in the
U.S. that are using the power of volunteers to improve the physical health
of their community. Grants are given in the form of The Home Depot gift
cards for the purchase of tools, materials, or services.
Up to $5,000 (gift cards)
Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) Main
Street/HOPE VI
Main Street area revitalization efforts seek to rejuvenate older, downtown
business districts while retaining the area's traditional and Historic
character. The purpose of the HOPE VI Main Street Program is to provide
assistance to smaller communities in the development of affordable
housing that is undertaken in connection with a Main Street revitalization
effort. The Act limited the size of communities that are eligible for these
grants to a population of 50,000, and required that the community not be
served by a public housing authority with more than 100 housing units.
Varies
KABOOM!
Keep America Beautiful
Kodak American
Greenways Awards
Program
Vision is "a great place to play within walking distance of every child in
America and mission is to create great playspaces through the
participation and leadership of communities". Occasionally has funds for
playground development but offers technical assistance and resources to
help communities develop playspaces for their children.
KAB's mission is "Engaging individuals to take greater responsibility for
improving their community environments." "Graffiti Hurts" grants are to
kick-start or add to a local graffiti prevention program. Grant funds may also
be used for a one-time project that has the potential to help reduce graffiti in
the community. Funding is also available through their "Cigarette Litter
Prevention" program. Funds for other initiatives may be available through
your local KAB affiliate.
Eastman Kodak, The Conservation Fund, and the National Geographic
Society provide small grants to stimulate the planning and design of
greenways in communities throughout America. Program goals are to
develop new, action-oriented greenway projects; to assist grassroots
greenway organizations; to leverage additional money for conservation and
greenway development and to recognize and encourage greenway
proponents and organizations.
57
No
http://www.google.com/grants/
http://www.cfda.gov, Several ways to
search including keyword, program
area etc.
None
specified
http://www.homedepotfoundation.org/ho
w-we-help/grants.html
http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/program
s/ph/hope6/grants/mainstreet/
Varies
varies by
program,
check
website
http://www.kaboom.org
Varies
No
http://www.kab.org;
http://www.preventcigarettelitter.org;
http://www.graffitihurts.org/grants.jsp
Yes
The Conservation Fund
kodakawards@conservationfund.org
703-525-6300
http://www.conservationfund.org/node/2
45
Small grants, unspecified
amounts.
Lowe’s Charitable and
Education Foundation
Dedicated to improving communities through support of public education,
community improvement projects and home safety initiatives. Community
improvement initiatives could include park and neighborhood beautification
and enhancements, repair/renovation and landscaping enhancements of
facilities serving the community; community garden, park, or playground
projects; community clean-up initiatives and outdoor learning environments
such as educational gardening programs
$5,000 to $25,000
Not
required
http://www.lowes.com/cd_Charitable+a
nd+Educational+Foundation_93625877
9_
Mary Reynolds Babcock
Foundation
"Helping to move people and places out of poverty by building just and
caring communities that nurture people, spur enterprise, bridge differences
and foster fairness. Our mission is to help people and places to move out of
poverty and achieve greater social and economic justice. We support
organizations and networks that work across race, ethnic, economic and
political differences to make possible a brighter future for all." Proposals
should be directed towards helping low wealth people build assets and
improve economic conditions in the community. Applicants should submit
an organization summary and then await approval to proceed with a
proposal submission. Opportunities include Program Related Investments
where the Foundation makes a below-market-rate investment in economic
development projects in low-wealth communities.
$50,000 to $200,000
will only
fund up to
30% of a
project
http://www.mrbf.org
Metlife Foundation-Local
Initiative Support
Corporation's
Community- Police
Partnership Awards
Recognizes, sustains and shares the work of innovative partnerships
between community groups and police to promote neighborhood safety and
revitalization. Two categories to apply in-Neighborhood Revitalization and
Special Strategy. For existing programs/partnerships, not for start-ups.
Deadline late February each year.
$15,000 to $25,000
National Association of
Realtors Smart Growth
Action Grants
MUST partner with a local or regional realtor association. To increase the
effectiveness of state and local REALTOR® association efforts in creating
livable communities, NAR’s Smart Growth Action Grant program is
available to support REALTOR® association efforts to implement programs
and activities that position REALTORS® as leaders in improving their
communities by advancing smart growth principles. Smart Growth Action
Grants come in three levels. Level One is designed to provide basic
education to REALTORS® and, if appropriate, to partners and public
officials. Level Two grants are designed to help associations develop a
project or approach to address local land use policy issues, including
developing coalitions. Level Three is for increasingly complex smart growth
projects where prior efforts can be documented and distinct public policy
and planning outcomes are sought.
$1,500 to $15,000
depending on program level
No
http://www.realtoractioncenter.com/forassociations/smartgrowth/smart-growthaction-grants.html
National Endowment for
the Arts (NEA) Cultural
Funding - Federal
Opportunities
The NEA has created a Web site to show that it isn't the only game in town
when it comes to federal support for the arts. The site describes and
provides links to grant programs in 23 federal agencies that have provided
support for arts and cultural projects.
varies
varies
http://www.arts.gov/grants/index.html
National Park Service,
U.S. Department of the
Interior
The Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, also known as
the Rivers & Trails Program or RTCA, is a community resource of the
National Park Service. Rivers & Trails staff work with communty groups and
local and State governments to conserve rivers, preserve open space, and
develop trails and greenways.
No financial aid but
technical assistance, see
web site to find regional
contact.
58
http://www.lisc.org/section/ourwork/nati
onal/safety/awards
http://www.nps.gov/rtca/
N. C. Adopt-A-Trail
Program
Supports local trail development activities. Contact agency for eligibility
criteria and award cycle.
N. C. Parks & Recreation
Trust Fund (PARTF)
Provides dollar-for-dollar matching grants to local governments for parks
and recreational projects to serve the public. Recipients use the grants to
acquire land and/or to develop parks and recreational projects that serve
the general public.
up to $5,000
up to $500,000
Yes
Dept. of Environment & Natural
Resources, Division of Parks and
Recreation,(919) 715-1846
or
http://www.ncparks.gov/About/trails_gra
nts.php
1 to 1
match
Dept. of Environment & Natural
Recreation, (919) 715-2661 or
http://www.ncparks.gov/About/grants/pa
rtf_main.php
N.C Recreational Trails
Fund
To support a variety of trails development activities including construction,
maintenance, acquisition, education/promotion. Contact agency for
eligibility criteria and award cycle.
$75,000
Yes
Department of Environment and Natural
Recreation
(919) 715-1846 or
http://www.ncparks.gov/About/trails_gra
nts.php
National Park Service,
U.S. Department of the
Interior-Rivers, Trails &
Conservation Assistance
Program
The mission of the Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program
(RTCA) is to assist community-led natural resource conservation and
outdoor recreation initiatives. RTCA staff provide guidance to communities
so they can conserve waterways, preserve open space, and develop
trails and greenways.
Technical Assistance only
n/a
http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/
contactus/cu_apply.html
National Trust for
Historic Preservation® Preservation Fund
Provides two types of assistance to nonprofit organizations and public
agencies: 1) matching grants from $500 to $5,000 for preservation planning
and educational efforts, and 2) intervention funds for preservation
emergencies. Matching grant funds may be used to obtain professional
expertise in areas such as architecture, archeology, engineering,
preservation planning, land-use planning, fund raising, organizational
development and law as well as to provide preservation education activities
to educate the public. Deadlines Feb 1, Jun 1 and Oct 1. Recommended to
contact regional office before applying.
1 to 1
cash
match
National Trust for Historic Preservation,
Southern Regional Office, William Aiken
House, 456 King Street, Charleston, SC
(843) 722-8552
http://www.preservationnation.org/resou
rces/find-funding/foundantdocuments/preservation-fundsguidelines-eligibility.html#el%20app
National Trust for
Historic Preservation® Cynthia Woods Mitchell
Fund
Mitchell funds are used to assist in the preservation, restoration, and
interpretation of historic interiors. Eligible activities include the retention of
professionals who offer expertise in the areas of planning, archaeology,
fundraising, architecture, etc. Applications are accepted once a year and
must be postmarked no later than Feb. 1.
No
(843) 722-8552
rces/find-funding/grants/
59
$500 to $5,000
$5,000 to $25,000
National Trust for
Historic Preservation® Johanna Favrot Fund
To provide grant support to nonprofit organizations, public agencies, forprofit businesses and individuals for the purpose of saving historic
environments in order to foster appreciation for our nation's diverse cultural
heritage and to preserve and revitalize the livability of the nation's
communities.
$5,000 - $25,000
No
(843) 722-8552
rces/find-funding/grants/
Natural Capital
Investment Fund
NCIF provides financial services to small and emerging natural resourcebased businesses located in economically distressed urban and rural
communities in North Carolina, Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia
and West Virginia.
n/a
n/a
In partnership with The Conservation
Fund, http://www.ncifund.org/
NC Arts Council
Offers a variety of grants in support of local arts development including
public art.
varies
Always
NC Arts Council, Department of Cultural
Resources, (919) 807-6500,
http://www.ncarts.org/grants_resources.
cfm
N.C. Dept. of Commerce,
Community Investment &
Assistance, Community
Development Block
Grants (CDBG)
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to local
municipal or county governments for projects that enhance the viability of
communities by providing decent housing and suitable living environments
and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of lowand moderate-income. A variety of programs are available including
Catalyst, Economic Development, Small Business & Entrepreneurial
Assistance, Scattered Site Housing and Infrastructure.
awards vary by grant type,
available to non-entitlement
(as designated by HUD)
communities
Yes, in
most
cases
http://www.nccommerce.com/CDBG
Assistance, CDBG
Catalyst Grants
Primary purpose of the Catalyst Program is to provide grants to local gov'ts.
to develop viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living
environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons
of low and moderate-income. Community applicants may tailor a project to
meet the community development needs specific and most critical to their
locality primarily for their low and moderate-income residents. This new
grant program incorporates several previous CDBG programs and activities
such as Housing Development, Individual Development Accounts, and
Community Revitalization.
up to $500,000
Preferred
Iris C. Payne, Programs and
Compliance Section Chief
(919) 571-4900
ipayne@nccommerce.com
http://www.nccommerce.com/communit
ydevelopment/investmentassistance/grant-categories/nc-catalyst
Assistance, CDBG
Economic Development
Grants
Provides grants to local governments for creating and retaining jobs.
Funding for projects is based on the number of jobs to be created and the
level of distress in the community applying for the funds. Sixty percent of
the jobs created or retained in a project must be for persons qualifying as
prior low and moderate income (LMI). CDBG funds are granted to local
governments for various types of infrastructure improvements to assist for
profit businesses create or retain jobs. A local funding match of at least
25% of the determined need is required except in the 27 most distressed
counties as defined in the Article 3J Tax Credit Act and current 21st
Century Communities.
not given
usually
25%
unless
project is
located in
one of the
most
economica
lly
distressed
counties in
the 3J Tier
George Sherrill, Section Chief
Commerce Finance Center
(919) 715-6559
gsherrill@nccommerce.com
ydevelopment/investmentassistance/grant-categories/economicdevelopment
60
Assistance, CDBG
Infrastructure Grants
Assistance, CDBG Small
Business &
Entrepreneurial
Assistance Grants
Includes Infrastructure and Infrastructure Hook-Up Programs.
Infrastructure grants improve the quality of life in a residential area or in a
local government's jurisdiction to correct problems that pose a severe
health or environment risk where at least 70% of the residents are low and
moderate-income. The Infrastructure Hook-Up Program enables eligible
local governments with existing public water and/or sewer line(s) to connect
or "hook-up" low and moderate-income (LMI) households to non-CDBG
funded line(s).
(CDBG) Small Business & Entrepreneurial Assistance
Small Business and Entrepreneurial assistance. This grant was designed to
assist local governments that are already in the process of developing a
coordinated effort to support and grow their community’s small
businesses. The local government would identify small businesses ready
to hire additional full-time people but in need of funding to make this
possible.
up to $750,000 for
Infrastructure and up to
$75,000 for Infrastructure
Hook-up
Local governments are
eligible to apply for grants
of between $150,000 and
$250,000. Amount awarded
is based on job creation
numbers
usually 5%
for
Infrastruct
ure
program
Iris C. Payne, Programs and
Compliance Section Chief
(919) 571-4900
ipayne@nccommerce.com
ydevelopment/investmentassistance/grantcategories/infrastructure
Preferred
Richard Fuqua, SBEA Program
Manager
(919) 571-4900
rfuqua@nccommerce.com
ydevelopment/investmentassistance/grant-categories/smallbusiness-entrepreneurial-development
Office of Urban
Development, Main
Street Solutions Fund
The Program’s purpose is to provide maximum support to small businesses
in designated metropolitans located in Tier 2 and Tier 3 counties and/or in
designated North Carolina Main Street communities including Small Town
Main Street communities in Tier 1, 2 or 3 counties. The Program is
intended to strengthen the local economy and its role as a regional growth
and employment hub. This is accomplished by leveraging the state’s
resources for small business development, spurring private investment, and
by providing economic development planning assistance and coordinated
grant support.
$200,000 maximum award;
$1.5 million pool
2:1 match
Ben Murphrey, Grant Administrator,
Urban Development Division,
bmurphrey@nccommerce.com or
(919)571-4900
N.C. Dept. of Commerce
Article 3J Tax Credits
Tax Credits for Growing Businesses-Article 3J Tax Credits. Based on
number of full time jobs created, wages, property investment and County
Tier designation.
see Summary at website for
particulars
n/a
http://www.nccommerce.com/en/Busine
ssServices/LocateYourBusiness/WhyN
C/Incentives/3J.htm
N.C. Renewable Energy
Tax Credits (N.C. Dept. of
Commerce)
Corporate State Tax Credits for Renewable energy available for
commercial and industrial applications.
up to 35%
n/a
http://www.thrivenc.com/incentives/fina
ncial/tax-credits/renewable-energy-taxcredits
N.C. Dept. of Commerce
Energy Division, Utility
Savings Initiative and
Technical Assistance
programs
The Utility Savings Initiative is the lead-by-example program supporting
energy efficiency in public buildings. The program serves state agencies,
the University of North Carolina system, the state's community colleges,
public schools and county and municipal governments..
The federally funded technical assistance program is available, without
charge, to state agencies, UNC system institutions, community colleges,
public schools and county and municipal governments as well as
commercial, nonprofit and industrial entities. Assistance includes energy
surveys and the development of strategic energy plans.
n/a
http://www.nccommerce.com/energy/go
vernment-nfps
61
NC Dept. of Environment
& Natural Resources
Brownfields Program
(Tax Incentive)
The North Carolina Brownfields Program, authorized by the state statute
known as the Brownfields Property Reuse Act, provides a mechanism to
treat prospective developers of brownfield sites differently than the parties
responsible for contaminating them. Prospective developers negotiate a
brownfields agreement with the program that defines activities needed to
make the site suitable for reuse, rather than cleaning up the site to
regulatory standards (which responsible parties are required to do).
An owner of a qualifying
property is eligible for partial
exclusion on the appraised
value of qualified
improvements provided
through enabling legislation
in NC General Statutes for
the first five taxable years
beginning after completion
of qualifying improvements
made after the later of July
1, 2000, or the date of the
brownfields agreement
N.C. Division of Pollution
Prevention and
Environmental
Assistance
Community Waste Reduction and Recycling Grants. The purpose of this
grant is to assist local governments and not-for-profit agencies in
expanding, improving and implementing waste reduction programs in North
Carolina. The Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental
Assistance administers the Community Waste Reduction and Recycling
Grants through the Solid Waste Management Trust Fund.
$25,000
Yes, 10%
Rob Taylor, (919) 715-6528 or
rob.taylor@ncmail.net,
http://p2pays.org/localgov/Financial.asp
N.C. Division of Pollution
Prevention and
Environmental
Assistance NC Waste
Trader, Commercial and
Industrial Business
Resources
North Carolina's marketplace for discarded or surplus materials and
products. This waste exchange service is designed to divert recoverable
materials from disposal while providing feedstocks and supplies to potential
users. The Division also offers free technical assistance for solid waste
reduction, water usage and energy usage for businesses.
Variety of materials
available at no cost or
reduced cost
N/A
http://www.ncwastetrader.org/home.asp
x,
http://www.p2pays.org
North Carolina Clean
Water Management Trust
Fund
Makes grants to local governments, state agencies and conservation nonprofits to help finance projects that specifically address water pollution
problems. Grants are awarded to enhance or restore degraded waters,
protect unpolluted waters, and/or contribute toward a network of riparian
buffers and greenways for environmental, educational and recreational
benefits.
Varies
Yes
http://www.cwmtf.net/
NC Department of
Transportation Bicycle &
Pedestrian Program
Funds for bicycle and pedestrian projects come from several different
sources that are described on the website; however, allocation of those
funds depends on the type of project/program and other criteria.
Varies
Yes
http://www.ncdot.gov/bikeped/
NC Department of
Transportation-SAFE
Routes to School
Safe Routes to School programs enable community leaders, schools and
parents across the United States to improve safety and encourage more
children, including children with disabilities, to safely walk and bicycle to
school. In the process, programs are working to reduce traffic congestion
and improve health and the environment, making communities more livable
for everyone.
62
Varies
n/a
http://www.ncbrownfields.org
http://www.ncdot.gov/doh/preconstruct/t
raffic/congestion/CM/MSTA/docs/SRTS
.pdf
NC DOT Traffic Management Unit,
Municipal & School Transportation
Assistance, Ed Johnson, Safe Routes
to School Coordinator, (919) 662-4344
or erjohnson2@ncdot.gov
N.C. Forest Service
Urban & Community
Forestry Grants
Grants are awarded on an annual basis through the USDA Forest Service
and are administered by the NC Forest Service, Urban & Community
Forestry Program. The program awards matching funds to encourage
citizen involvement in creating and sustaining urban and community
forestry programs. Grant funds may be awarded to any unit of local or state
government, public educational institutions, approved non-profit 501(c)(3)
organizations and other tax-exempt organizations. First-time municipal
applicant and municipalities seeking Tree City USA status are given priority
for funding.
N. C. Green Business
Fund
Established in the 2007 Legislative Session, the North Carolina Green
Business Fund (NCGBF) awards competitive grants to North Carolina
organizations with innovative projects focused on three priority areas:
development and commercialization of the biofuels industry; development
and commercialization of the green building industry, and attraction and
leverage of private sector investments and entrepreneurial growth in
environmentally conscious clean technology and renewable energy
products and businesses.
63
$1,000 - $15,000
Yes,
cash(nonfederal $)
or in-kind
Urban and Community Forestry Grant,
NC Forest Service, 919-857-4801 or
http://ncforestservice.gov/Urban/urban_
grant_overview.htm
up to $500,000
Matching
funds are
not
required
but are a
factor in
the project
scoring
and
evaluation
http://www.ncscitech.com/gbf/
NC Rural Center Building
Reuse and Restoration
Grant Program
NC Rural Center Capital
Access Program (CAP)
NC Rural Center
Microenterprise Loan
Program
Assists communities in maximizing the economic potential of existing
structures. Grants are available for 1) the restoration and upfitting of vacant
buildings and 2) the expansion and renovation of buildings currently
occupied by certain types of businesses. The grants match other public and
private funding and must lead to the creation of private sector jobs by new
or expanding businesses. Eligible applicants are units of local government,
nonprofit organizations or educational institutions located within North
Carolina’s 85 rural counties. Predevelopment grants no longer available.
The program, federally funded, encourages banks and other lenders to
consider business loans that fall just outside their traditional underwriting
standards. The Rural Center will administer the program in all 100
counties. Any North Carolina business with 500 or fewer employees is
eligible for an NC-CAP loan. Loans may be used to finance most business
purposes, including real estate, construction, equipment and working
capital. Contact NC Rural Center for more information and a list of
participating lenders.
NC Rural Center works with individuals who have sound ideas for starting
or expanding a small business but may not qualify for bank loans. An
express loan product is available in amounts up to $5,000 — you can get a
loan decision within three business days. The loans are offered in
combination with business planning and technical assistance. Special
emphasis given to serving rural, low-income, female and minority
borrowers.
64
Vacant Property Grant:
Varies according to type of
use and location. The
maximum for any grant is
$8000 for each job created
up to $480,000 or one-half
the renovation cost,
whichever is less and this
amount may vary depending
on the its economic
development Tier status.
Eligible activities include
rehabilitation, renovation
and brownfield remediation.
Grants for Occupied
Properties may be awarded
up to $5,000 per job up to a
maximum $500,000 or onehalf the renovation cost,
whichever is less. Eligible
buildings include those used
for manufacturing,
warehousing, distribution,
data processing and
software development. The
business must create new
jobs as a result of the
renovation.
Pre-application
qualifications. Applications
accepted throughout the
year.
Loans range from $25K to
$5M
Loans up to $25K
Yes
Rural Economic Development Center,
Inc., 4021 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/community
-programs/building-reuse.html
N/A
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/businessprograms/capaccess.html
N/A
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/businessprograms/microenterprise.html
NC Rural Center
Economic Innovation
Grants
NC Rural Center
Economic Infrastructure
Grants
Funds are available for local and regional projects in rural communities to
spur business activity, job creation and public/private investment by
supporting innovative economic development projects. Proposals are
evaluated based on the innovative nature of the project and the project’s
ability to generate measurable outcomes for business and job expansion.
Grants will be awarded for projects that develop new, creative practices and
strategies to be tested in communities for the first time and for larger-scale
projects that take innovative solutions proven in one place and apply them
in ways that bring widespread impact. Priority will be given to projects
addressing rural manufacturing innovation; growth of the green economy
and Community-based economic innovation. Detailed descriptions of
these priority areas may be found in the program guidelines. Eligible
applicants are units of local government, nonprofit organizations or
educational institutions located within North Carolina’s 85 rural counties.
Also eligible are statewide and regional organizations and agencies serving
rural counties. Businesses are not eligible for economic innovation grants.
Must first submit letter of intent with NC Rural Center.
Awards grants for water and sewer projects, natural gas extensions and
broadband. Projects in these categories are eligible for $10,000 for each
job up to $1 million. Associated with an expanding business or a new
business location. These projects must lead directly to new, full-time jobs in
the private sector. Only units of local government in one of North Carolina's
85 rural counties may apply. IN ADDITION, It will also will now consider
grants for access roads not eligible for N.C. Department of Transportation
funding, rail spurs, required stormwater infrastructure on private property,
privately owned water storage tanks necessary for fire suppression or
process water, and wastewater pre-treatment facilities necessary for
connection to a public treatment system. Under these categories, grants
may be awarded for $5,000 for each job being created, up to $500,000.
65
Grant amount will be based
on the scale of the project,
up to a maximum award of
$100,000.
Applicants
must show
a match of
at least 5
percent of
the
requested
amount in
cash and
a
combined
10 percent
cash or inkind. Cash
matches
cannot be
met with
other state
funds or
Rural
Center
funds.
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/researchand-innovation/grantprograms.html
Must go through
preapplication process. Up
to $10,000 for each job
created, with a maximum
grant of $1 million or 1/2 the
total project cost or $5,000
for each job created up to
$500,000 depending on the
type of project.
Grants
must be
matched
dollar for
dollar by
other
funds. The
local
governme
nt must
match at
least 5
percent of
the grant
amount,
either
through
cash or a
loan.
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/community
-programs/infrastructure.html
N/A
27610, (919) 250-4314 or
http://ncruralcenter.org/index.php?optio
n=com_content&view=article&id=535:n
ew-gen-ventures&catid=49:leadershipaengagement&Itemid=287programs/infra
structure.html
Varies
Yes
Grants Administrator, State Historic
Preservation Office, NC Division of
Archives & History
(919) 807-6570,
http://www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/
To certify local governments to participate in the national framework of
historic preservation programs by ensuring that local governments have an
active and legally adequate historic preservation commission, meeting
federal requirements for certification. As a designated CLG, local
governments are eligible to compete for a portion of the funds that the state
receives from the federal government to be used as a matching grant for
eligible survey, planning, pre-development or development activities.
Varies
Yes,
usually
50%
State Historic Preservation Office, NC
Division of Archives & History
(919) 807-6580,
N.C. State Historic
Preservation Office
Investment Tax Credits
for Certified
Rehabilitation of Historic
Properties
To support the rehabilitation of historic properties by offering tax credits for
certified rehabilitation activity. Work must meet the Secretary of Interior
Standards for Rehabilitation and must be documented prior to and during
rehabilitation.
20% federal tax credit for
eligible expenses
associated with the
rehabilitation of properties
individually listed on the
National Register of Historic
Places or those properties
listed as contributing to a
National Register District. In
addition NC has a 20% tax
credit to match the federal
credit, plus a 30% credit for
residential rehab.
NA
Tim Simmons, AIA, State Historic
Preservation Office, N.C. Division of
Archives & History,
(919) 807-6585,
http://www.hpo.dcr.state.nc.us/tchome.
htm
NC State Historic
Preservation Office, Mill
Rehabilitation State Tax
Credits
Promotes reuse of former industrial sites particularly textile, tobacco and
furniture manufacturing and processing facilities. State tax credits are
available for the rehabilitation of income- and nonincome-producing historic
mill properties. Based on County's 3J Economic Development Tier
designation. Available in lieu of, not in addition to, Historic
Preservation Tax credits.
Up to 40%
n/a
http://www.hpo.ncdcr.gov/millcredits.ht
m
NC Rural Center
Economic New
Generation Ventures
Ventures is part of the larger New Generation Initiative, a three-year effort
to transform rural counties through youth and young adult engagement. The
program targets young adults between 18-30, who self-identify as
unemployed or underemployed, but it is open to everyone — even those
who have already started a business. The program combines business
coaching, training, networking and other opportunities. Other programs of
the initiative target career development, community training and the
engagement of young leaders in community service.
N.C. State Historic
Preservation Office Financial Assistance for
Restoration &
Rehabilitation
Other programs of the initiative target career development, community
training and the engagement of young leaders in community service.
NC State Historic
Preservation Office Local
Government Program
66
Technical Assistance and
mentoring
NC State Historic
Preservation Office,
Technical Assistance for
Restoration &
Rehabilitation & Historic
Buildings Maintenance
North Carolina Pumpout
Program
N.C. Urban Forest
Council NC Legacy Tree
Fund Grant
All owners of historic buildings in North Carolina, including private
individuals and organizations as well as agencies of government, may
request the technical advice of the Restoration Branch of the State Historic
Preservation Office (HPO). Technical consultations incur no cost or
obligation. Consultations are offered on a time-available basis and may
include telephone consultations, mailings of technical articles and sample
specifications, on-site building inspections and evaluations, and referrals to
specialty architects, contractors and consultants.
The program provides financial assistance to private and commercial
marinas, gas/service docks, fish houses/seafood dealers and other boatdocking facilities for the installation and renovation of pumpout and dump
stations in the 20 coastal counties of NC.
The purpose of the NCUFC Legacy Tree Fund is to provide financial
assistance to communities across North Carolina for tree planting projects
that help educate North Carolina citizens about the importance of trees and
the role they play in improving air and water quality, reducing energy costs,
increasing real estate values, providing wildlife habitat, and creating
opportunities for residents to relax and enjoy nature. Annual, usually
announced in late winter with spring deadline.
No
Restoration Branch, State Historic
Preservation Office, NC Division of
Archives & History,
(919) 807-6570 or
up to $10,000
Yes, 10%
to 25%,
depending
Division of Coastal Management,
http://dcm2.enr.state.nc.us/marinas/pu
mpout.htm
annual, up to $5,000
1:1 cash
or in-kind
match
http://www.ncufc.org/tree-legacy.php
Office Depot Foundation
One of their funding focuses is Building Communities – to support civic
organizations and activities that serve the needs of our community.
up to $3,000 which may
include in-kind support
None
specified
http://www.officedepotfoundation.com/f
unding.asp
Parks and Recreation
Trust Fund (PARTF)
PARTF is the primary source of funding to build and renovate facilities in
the state parks as well as to buy land for new and existing parks. The
PARTF program also provides dollar-for-dollar grants to local governments
to acquire land and/or to develop parks and recreational projects that serve
the general public. At this website, you can learn how to apply for a grant,
see lists of past grant recipients, and download an application.
up to $500,000
Yes, dollar
for dollar
http://www.ncparks.gov/About/grants/pa
rtf_main.php
PNC Bank's PNC
Foundation Grants
(formerly RBC Bank)
The PNC Foundation supports a variety of nonprofit organizations with a
special emphasis on those that work to achieve sustainability and touch a
diverse population, in particular, those that support early childhood
education and/or economic development in PNC banking communities
not given
http://www.pncsites.com/pncfoundation/
foundation_grantProcess.html
At this time, PNC website does not list
the regional PNC representative for NC
communities, since the changeover
from RBC Bank just took place.
Preservation Technology
and Training Grants
The Preservation Technology and Training Grants Program is among the
few preservation and conservation grants programs devoted to training,
technology and basic research. The purpose of the PTTGrants program is
to ensure an effective and efficient system of research, information
distribution, and skills training in all the related historic preservation fields.
Through its grants program, NCPTT has developed partnerships for
innovative work in preservation and conservation. Proposals for the
PTTGrants program are accepted annually with a call for proposals by late
Summer each year, and proposals due in late December each year.
67
not stated
Varies
National Center for Preservation
Technology and Training (NCPTT),
NSU Box 5682, Natchitoches, LA
71497; E-mail to
pttgrants@ncptt.nps.gov or
http://www.ncptt.nps.gov/
Preserve America
Communities
Recognizes and designates communities, including municipalities, counties,
neighborhoods in large cities, and tribal communities, that protect and
celebrate their heritage, use their historic assets for economic development
and community revitalization, and encourage people to experience and
appreciate local historic resources through education and heritage tourism
programs. Newly designated communities are notified by a letter from the
First Lady of the United States. Benefits of designation include White
House recognition; eligibility to apply for Preserve America Grants (when
funds are available); a certificate of recognition; a Preserve America
Community road sign; authorization to use the Preserve America logo on
signs, flags, banners, and promotional materials; listing in a Web-based
Preserve America Community directory; inclusion in national and regional
press releases; official notification of designation to state tourism offices
and visitors bureaus; and enhanced community visibility and pride.
Preserve America Communities are also featured in National Register
Travel Itineraries and in "Teaching with Historic Places" curricular material
created by the National Park Service. There are quarterly deadlines to
apply for designation annually on March 1, June 1, September 1, and
December 1. Application forms are available at
http://www.preserveamerica.gov/communities.html
Recognition program/no
monetary benefit
Progress Energy
Corporate Grants
Support a variety of nonprofit organizations and programs that improve the
quality of life in their communities. Applicants must be in a Progress Energy
service area.
up to $10,000, rolling
deadline
None
specified
http://progressenergy.com/community/foundation/corp
orateguidelines.asp
Project Orange Thumb
Provides community garden groups with the tools and materials they need
to reach their goals for neighborhood beautification and horticulture
education.
Up to $1,500.00 in Fiskars®
Garden Tools; Up to
$3500.00 for other materials
such as plants, seeds,
mulch, etc.
No
http://www2.fiskars.com/Activities/Proje
ct-Orange-Thumb
Public Beach and
Coastal Waterfront
Access Program
North Carolina program to provide matching grants to local governments for
low-cost projects designed to improve pedestrian access to the state's
beaches. May be used to construct low-cost access facilities, including
parking areas, restrooms, dune crossovers, and piers and related facilities.
Also land acquisition or revitalization of urban waterfronts.
Yes
Division of Coastal Management, (919)
733-2293 or http://dcm2.enr.state.nc.us
Rural Advancement
Foundation International
The Tobacco Communities Reinvestment Fund has a Community Grant
Award program available to community groups in a group of specific NC
counties. Two areas that would pertain to downtown development are "
establish new markets for local products and services" and "add value to
existing farm products by processing, packaging or marketing in a special
way." Project must involve area farmers or farm organizations.
Must
demonstra
te costshare and
community
contributio
n to the
project.
For more information and a list of
eligible counties,
http://www.rafiusa.org/programs/tobacc
o/tobacco.html
68
up to $20,000
http://www.preserveamerica.gov/comm
unities.html
Self-Help
Self-Help is creating and protecting ownership and economic opportunity
for all, especially people of color, women, rural residents and low-wealth
families and communities.
The nonprofit Center for Community Self-Help and its financing affiliates
Self-Help Credit Union, Self-Help Federal Credit Union, and Self-Help
Ventures Fund provide financing, technical support, consumer financial
services, and advocacy for those left out of the economic mainstream.
Since its founding in 1980, Self-Help has reached out to female, rural and
minority communities across North Carolina, in Washington, D.C.,
California, and many other states. We make loans ranging in size from a
few thousand dollars to several million, depending on the project being
financed. Our loans are available to meet a variety of needs including:
Starting, buying or expanding a business or nonprofit; Purchasing,
renovating, or constructing a building; Buying equipment and machinery;
Providing working capital ; and Buying inventory.
Varies
SlowMoney NC
SlowMoney NC's goal is to support financing a resilient economy that feeds
its citizens healthy, safe, agriculturally sustainable, locally grown foods.
It functions as a membership organization and part of national SlowMoney
network. Primarily focuses on agriculture/food-related businesses.
Matches up members willing to lend with businesses seeking loans.
n/a-size of loan varies
Small Business Center
Network in NC
The Small Business Center Network, comprised of 58 Small Business
Centers throughout North Carolina, supports the development of new
businesses and the growth of existing businesses by being a communitybased provider of training, counseling, and resource information.
N/A
http://www.sbcn.nc.gov/library/pdf/Fueli
ngYourBusiness.pdf
Small Business
Technology and
Development Center
The SBTDC is North Carolina’s leading resource for growing and
developing businesses. Our highly skilled professionals, position as a
program of The University of North Carolina System, and partnership with
the U.S. Small Business Administration make us a unique and valued asset
in the economic development of our State.
N/A
http://www.sbtdc.org/pdf/Cap_Opp2008
.pdf
State Farm Company
Grants
Focus is on three areas: safety, community development and education.
The Community Development component targets first time homeowners,
community revitalization, affordable housing and economic development
Award amount not specified,
cycle runs Jan 2-Oct 31
Surdna Foundation
TechSoup
The Surdna Foundation seeks to foster just and sustainable communities in
the U.S. They foster just and sustainable communities by making grants in
the United States in the areas of thriving cultures, sustainable environments
and strong local economies.
TechSoup.org offers nonprofits a one-stop resource for technology needs
by providing free information, resources, and support. In addition to online
information and resources, they offer a product philanthropy service called
TechSoup Stock. Here, nonprofits can access donated and discounted
technology products, generously provided by corporate and nonprofit
technology partners.
69
N/A
http://www.self-help.org/about-us
http://slowmoneync.org/
http://www.statefarm.com/aboutus/com
munity/grants/company/company.asp
http://www.surdna.org
n/a
n/a
http://www.TechSoup.org
The Tobacco Trust Fund grants monies to programs that foster, support,
encourage and facilitate a strong agricultural economy in NC. The grants
place a high priority on projects that address ways to decrease
unemployment, stimulate the agricultural economy in local communities,
strengthen sales of local foods and assist farmers with innovative research
and cost-share programs. Call for applications in January 2013.
TCF distributes charitable grants to worthy nonprofit organizations
worldwide. Grants are typically in the range of $5,000 to $20,000. The
foundation seeks programs or projects with one or more of the following
goals: to protect, restore and conserve sites of natural, cultural, or historic
significance; to increase the traveling public's awareness of and
involvement in conservation efforts;to promote conservation education
within local host communities and to the traveling public.
Approx. range $25K-$150K
Yes
http://www.tobaccotrustfund.org
Varies
Preferred
http://www.tourismcaresfortomorrow.org
/grants
Toyota Match Program
Toyota will provide matching funds up to $10,000 to each Toyota dealership
across the country in order for them to support local community groups and
causes the local dealers and their customers feel are important. Local
charities work directly with their local Toyota dealer to apply for funds.
$2500-$10,000
1:1 cash
match
http://toyotadealermatch.com/
Transportation
Enhancements Funds
(formerly TEA-21)
Transportation Enhancements funds are available for a wide range of public
improvements along state designated highways, including historic
restoration, trail development, pedestrian support. An application cycle is
generally announced bi-annually but this procedure has changed for FY's
2008-2011 because of the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of
2009.
Allocations decisions
regarding Federal
enhancement funding are
on hold pending
Congressional action on
surface transportation
program reauthorization
Yes
Enhancements Coordinator, NC Dept.
of Transportation,
http://www.ncdot.gov/programs/Enhanc
ement/default.html
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Brownfields and Land
Revitalization
Brownfields Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund, and Cleanup Grants may
be used to address sites contaminated by petroleum and hazardous
substances, pollutants, or contaminants (including hazardous substances
co-mingled with petroleum). Technical assistance grants are also available
that provide assessment type of services but don't provide funds.
Varies
U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Boating Infrastructure
Grant Program (B.I.G.)primarily coastal regions
and Boating Access
(B.A.) program
May have to partner with state NC DENR, B.I.G.Program provides grant
funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas to construct,
renovate, and maintain tie-up facilities with features for transient boaters in
vessels 26 feet or more in length, and to produce and distribute information
and educational materials about the program. B.A. Program provides
grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and
wildlife agencies for projects that provide access to America's waterways by
developing new access facilities or renovation and/or improvement of
existing facilities.
Varies
Yes
http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/mf/whatbig-program and
http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/
GrantPrograms/BoatAccess/BA.htm
US Department of
Agriculture, Rural
Development
USDA Rural Development has programming and grant/loan assistance
available for small business development, energy conservation initiatives,
affordable housing and community infrastructure.
Varies according to program
generally
requires a
match
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/
Tobacco Trust Fund
Tourism Cares for
Tomorrow
70
http://epa.gov/brownfields/grant_info/ind
ex.htm
US Department of
Commerce, Economic
Development
Administration
Verizon Foundation
Wells Fargo
Wal-Mart State Giving
Program
Waste Management
Economic Development Assistance Programs-specific opportunities include
Local Technical Assistance, Public Works and Economic Development, and
Economic Adjustment Assistance. May have to partner with the city or
town for best impact.
The Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Verizon Communications,
is focused on using technology to solve critical social issues in the areas of
education, healthcare, and sustainability. The Foundation provides
support to nonprofit organizations throughout the U.S. that address one of
the following funding priorities: increasing student interest and achievement
in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM); preventing
domestic violence and helping victims gain independence; improving
healthcare through innovative technology-based programs; fostering
smart energy practices; and inspiring good environmental citizens
among schools and communities. Verizon Foundation only accepts
proposals through our “Apply Online” process. We review unsolicited online
proposals on a continuous calendar year basis from January 1st through
mid-October. Visit the Foundation’s website to submit an online
application.
Supports the improvement of low- and moderate-income communities
through programs that: create and sustain affordable housing; facilitate
financial literacy and empowerment; provide job training and workforce
development and revitalize and stabilize communities.
Through the Wal-Mart State Giving Program, the Wal-Mart Foundation
seeks to support organizations with programs that align with their mission to
create opportunities so people can live better. Strives to award grants that
have a long-lasting, positive impact. Has four areas of focus: Education,
Workforce Development / Economic Opportunity, Health & Wellness, and
Environmental Sustainability. Only organizations that are currently listed in
the IRS current 50 State Master File are eligible.
Programs that Waste Management is most likely to support are initiatives in
the area of environment, environmental education or community.
Applications are accepted year round and are reviewed on a continuous
basis. Will accept requests for financial, in-kind or product donations. No
application form, see website for proposal instructions.
71
Varies
unknown
http://www.eda.gov/
The average grant size
ranges from $5,000 to
$10,000.
Preferred
http://www.verizonfoundation.org/grants
/
Varies
unknown
https://www.wellsfargo.com/about/charit
able/nc_guidelines
Minimum grants are
$25,000.
None
noted.
http://walmartstores.com/CommunityGiv
ing/8168.aspx?p=8979
amounts not indicated
not
indicated,
but looks
for support
from other
community
partners
http://www.wm.com/wm/community/givi
ng.asp
Z. Smith Reynolds
The Foundation focuses its grant making on five Focus Areas: Community
Economic Development, the Environment, Social Justice and Equity,
Democracy and Civic Engagement, and Pre-Collegiate Education.
Applicants are encouraged to review the results sought within each relevant
focus area to better understand the fit of their organization’s work or project
within the priorities of the Foundation. The Foundation makes grants to
501(c)3 organizations and government entities for programs and projects
serving the people of North Carolina. The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation
(ZSR) has two grant cycles each year. Grant application deadlines are in
February and August. They offer two programs, Strategic Grants and Small
Grants (grant requests less than $35k/year for 2 years).
72
amounts vary by grant
Yes
http://www.zsr.org
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Brown, Sara. "Beacon Hill." Beacon Hill honors Window Box Gardeners. October 13, 2011.
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/beacon_hill/2011/10/beacon_hill_honors_window_box.html (accessed October 10, 2012).
"City of Clinton, NC Main Street Program." Main Street. April 14, 2010. http://www.cityofclintonnc.com/planning-main-street.html (accessed October 15,
2012).
"Graduation Speech." Dress Stores in Carytown VA. n.d. http://ahohys.site90.net/dress-stores-in-cary-town-va.php (accessed October 10, 2012).
NC Downtown Development Association Report for Williamston. Technical Assistance Team Report, Williamston, NC: North Carolina Downtown Development
Association , 1996.
"Nonprofit Law Resource Library." Hurwit & Associates. 2012. http://www.hurwitassociates.com/l_s_initial_nc.php (accessed October 18, 2012).
"Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program Overview." North Carolina Forest Service. December 15, 2011.
http://ncforestservice.gov/Urban/urban_grant_overview.htm (accessed October 18, 2012).
Wilson, Joanna. "Christmas TV History." Book Tour: Richmond Va. November 20, 2010. http://www.christmastvhistory.com/2010/11/book-tour-richmondvirginia-recap.html (accessed October 10, 2012).
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Robersonville, NC Downtown Beautification

Transcription

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