Programs
MIP (Micro Intake Professional)
The MIP Program is for anyone who wants to start a new business or expand an existing business in a rural area of North Carolina. You may be eligible for a loan of $500 to $25,000. Funding is provided through the NC Rural Economic Development Center by the North Carolina General Assembly. Additional funding is provided by other foundations and corporate and individual contributors.
The MIP program will offer you appropriate and timely technical assistance, which will allow you to gain and improve your financial and business management skills. You may be eligible if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Live in North Carolina
- Are at least 18 years of age
- Own and operate or plan to own and operate a business in one of North Carolina's rural counties.
- Have fewer than 10 full-time employees
The REAL Program (Rural Entrepreneurship through Action Learning)
REAL is committed to developing entrepreneurship talents through action learning and fostering the creation of sustainable enterprises throughout North Carolina with special emphasis on rural communities. REAL is a unique hands-on approach to facilitate entrepreneurs through the planning, owning and operating of their own businesses. Prior business experience is not required. The program helps individuals to start, expand and improve their own small businesses and deals with topics, such as self-assessment, community analysis, market research and feasibility, competitive analysis, financial feasibility, plan essentials, legal structures, targeting the customer, taxes and licenses, and computerized financial analysis.