Lowe's & LISC $2M Grants to WNC Small Businesses Post-Hurricane Helene

WNC -- November 25, 2024: In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Lowe’s and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) have partnered to establish the Lowe's Western North Carolina Small

Business Recovery Fund, a $2 million initiative aimed at supporting 100 small businesses in disaster-affected communities. Each business will receive $20,000 to aid recovery efforts and stimulate economic revitalization in the region.

The fund, managed by LISC—the nation’s largest community development organization—will open for applications on Monday, Nov. 18, at 9 a.m. Small businesses can learn more and apply at LISC.org/Lowes.

Eligibility 

To qualify for a grant, businesses must meet the following requirements:

Location: Operate in disaster-declared communities in Western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Status: Be a for-profit entity actively registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State.
Operational History: Have been in operation for at least one year prior to September 27, 2023.
Revenue: Generate less than $1 million in annual gross revenue.
Impact: Demonstrate physical or economic damage from Hurricane Helene not covered by insurance or other funding sources.
Current Status: Be operational or have a concrete plan to reopen.
Lowe’s Thanksgiving Week Support Initiatives

Read more on eligibilty here

Beyond the recovery fund, Lowe’s will host events throughout Thanksgiving week to provide additional support to local businesses, restaurants, and artisans. These events aim to bolster community spirit and promote economic recovery during one of the busiest weeks for small businesses. 

Thanksgiving Meals Distribution

On Tuesday, Nov. 26, Lowe’s will distribute 3,000 family-style Thanksgiving meals at six locations in Asheville, Banner Elk, Boone, Marion, and Weaverville. Meals will be prepared by local caterers and restaurants, including:

Reid's Cafe & Catering Co. (Banner Elk)
The Blackbird Restaurant (Asheville)
Zella's Deli & Catering (Swannanoa)
The Local Joint (Fairview)
Well Bred Bakery & Cafe (Asheville)
Baked Pie Company (Asheville)
These efforts will feed more than 12,000 people in some of the hardest-hit areas.

Holiday Pop-Up for Artisans

On Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30, Lowe’s of West Asheville will host a Holiday Pop-Up Market for local artisans affected by flooding in the River Arts District. Participating artisans will receive:

$1,000 grants to replenish inventory and supplies.

A table and tent to showcase and sell their work.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include food trucks, children’s activities, and opportunities for artisans to sell existing pieces and take commissions.

Lowe’s $12M Commitment to Relief and Recovery

These efforts are part of Lowe’s broader $12 million pledge to support disaster relief across Western North Carolina following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Highlights of this commitment include:

A $750,000 grant to Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry to rebuild its veterans housing facility.
Support for first responders and local nonprofits.
Deployment of hundreds of Lowe’s red vest volunteers to assist in cleanup efforts, including removing mud and debris across the region.

Apply 

Small business owners in disaster-declared areas are encouraged to apply for this essential funding to aid in recovery efforts. Applications open Monday, Nov. 18, at 9 a.m. For more information and to apply, visit  LISC.org

Lowe’s and LISC remain committed to fostering resilience and revitalization in Western North Carolina, ensuring that local businesses and communities recover and thrive in the months ahead.