Building Up-fit Grant for Small Business Owners in North Carolina

The City of Raleigh’s Building Up-fit Grant is a local economic development initiative designed to revitalize underutilized commercial properties within Raleigh, North Carolina. Managed by the Economic and Social Advancement department, this program is a strategic tool to encourage small business growth by supporting interior building improvements that activate vacant or underused spaces. By targeting commercial spaces that are either vacant or not being fully leveraged, the program aims to stimulate business development and generate job creation across the city. The grant is structured as a matching reimbursement initiative, offering to cover up to 50 percent of qualified construction expenses. This cost-sharing model incentivizes business owners to invest in capital improvements while maintaining a level of financial responsibility. Importantly, the program does not fund exterior renovations or improvements, ensuring that all support is channeled into internal functional upgrades that enable commercial operations. Residential properties, franchises, and any properties located outside the city limits of Raleigh are strictly ineligible. These restrictions align the program’s focus with local economic growth within Raleigh’s defined boundaries. The application process is phased and carefully managed to ensure proper vetting and alignment with city goals. Prospective applicants must first review the full eligibility requirements outlined in the Program Brochure and FAQs. To initiate the process, applicants complete a preliminary eligibility form. If deemed eligible, city staff then issue the full application form via email. Applications are accepted only during defined quarterly cycles, and submissions outside these windows are not considered. This process ensures that resources are allocated fairly and efficiently, allowing for equitable access and proper evaluation. There are four grant cycles each fiscal year. For example, in 2026, the third grant cycle opened on January 8 and closed on February 1, with award notifications made on February 20. The fourth and final cycle for the current fiscal year opens on April 2 and closes on April 26, with notifications scheduled for May 15. These clearly defined timelines allow applicants to plan ahead, and those unable to meet a cycle deadline may prepare for the subsequent round. Additionally, the program is structured to recur quarterly, providing regular access to funding throughout the year. Enhanced grant terms and funding may be available to businesses that choose to locate in designated Economic Development Priority Areas within the city. These areas are specifically identified by the City of Raleigh as focal points for targeted growth and revitalization. Businesses can verify their location’s eligibility by referring to the interactive map linked on the program’s webpage. This geographic emphasis supports equitable economic expansion, focusing on communities where investment can have the greatest impact. For further information or specific inquiries, applicants are encouraged to contact Carl Brooks II, Economic Development Analyst for the City of Raleigh. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 919-996-6959. Supporting materials, including the Program Brochure and FAQ documents, provide essential details on eligible costs, reimbursement procedures, and project management expectations. These documents are required reading prior to submission to ensure a successful application.