Western North Carolina businesses are set to receive an $8.5 million boost through SmBIZ grants, aimed at fueling recovery following Hurricane Helene. The funding will support 13 infrastructure projects across the region, focusing on essential repairs and increased resilience against future disruptions. Governor Josh Stein today announced the funding on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Funding Details
The Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ), managed by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, awarded the funds to local governments. The grants will facilitate the repair and upgrade of public infrastructure crucial for small business operations. Eligible infrastructure includes water and sewer lines, stormwater systems, utility relocation, and streetscape repairs. The grants are capped at $1 million per project.
This allocation represents the third round of SmBIZ awards, bringing the total distributed since November 2025 to nearly $30 million. The funding originates from a $55 million state appropriation.
Projected Impact
The infrastructure improvements are intended to stabilize commercial areas and enhance resilience against future disasters. Projects were selected based on local priorities, urgency, and potential impact on businesses.
Specific Projects
Ashe County will receive funding for multiple projects. The town of Lansing is slated to receive $979,759 to restore its business district infrastructure. The town of West Jefferson will receive funds to rehabilitate downtown sewer lines, repair business-impacting damage, and make supplemental downtown improvements.
In Caldwell County, the city of Lenoir will receive $500,000 for upgrades to the Steele Cotton Mill area.
Jackson County projects include $478,875 for the town of Dillsboro to restore Front Street and improve stormwater management, and $952,760 for the town of Sylva for downtown stormwater and utility repairs.
Mitchell County will see several projects in Bakersville, including funding to boost downtown service reliability, repair flood-damaged infrastructure, construct steel-reinforced retaining walls, and upgrade public safety and business continuity measures. The town of Spruce Pine will also receive funding to bury infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The SmBIZ grants aim to provide WNC businesses with the dependable services they need to serve customers and grow. Eligible counties can still apply for funding through the North Carolina Department of Commerce.