Golden LEAF will consider applications to assist eligible state, regional and local economic development entities with grants to support permissible activities that lead to job creation in tobacco-dependent or economically distressed areas. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Golden LEAF staff to discuss the potential projects and conditions that may be applicable prior to submitting an application.
Proposals for Economic Catalyst grants should be coordinated with the other economic development entities, including:
- North Carolina Department of Commerce,
- the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina and
- local and regional economic development organizations.
Grants are available only for projects that include a specific company’s commitment to create full-time jobs in NC. Full-time jobs are defined as jobs that provide 1,600 hours or more per year of work. Companies must provide at least 50% of the cost of employee-only health insurance for full-time employees.
- Eligible applicants are governmental entities and 501 (c)(3) non-profit organizations.