North Wilkesboro, NC: Verenovo has proudly announced its selection as one of the fifteen startups to receive the esteemed NC IDEA MICRO grant. This achievement not only underscores the company’s dedication and the potential of its innovative solutions but also marks a significant milestone for Wilkes County. Verenovo stands as the first company from this region, and potentially from Western North Carolina, to be honored with this grant.
The NC IDEA, a distinguished private foundation that champions entrepreneurial ambition and economic empowerment in North Carolina, has awarded a collective $150,000 to fifteen startups in its tenth NC IDEA MICRO grant cycle. Since its inception in Spring 2018, the program has generously distributed over $1.6 million to 162 emerging companies across the state, with Verenovo now joining this respected roster.
The NC IDEA MICRO program is tailored to offer $10,000 project-based grants to young companies, like Verenovo, that aim to validate and further their business ideas. Thom Ruhe, President and CEO of NC IDEA, emphasized the escalating demand for such funding and support from every corner of the state. He also highlighted the increasing competitiveness and diversity of the grant cycles, reflecting North Carolina’s robust economic potential.
Having been chosen after an intensive three-month application and selection process, which attracted 182 applications statewide, speaks volumes about Verenovo’s dedication and the unique value it brings to the entrepreneurial landscape. This acknowledgment not only propels Verenovo’s mission but also underscores the untapped potential and talent present in Wilkes County and the wider Western North Carolina region.
ABOUT
Verenovo: Based in North Wilkesboro, NC, Verenovo is a trailblazing startup committed to introducing innovative solutions to the agricultural market. As the inaugural NC IDEA MICRO grant recipient from Wilkes County and possibly Western North Carolina, the company is setting a precedent for future entrepreneurs from the region.
NC IDEA Foundation: NC IDEA is an independent private foundation committed to empowering North Carolinians to achieve their entrepreneurial potential. Through our powerful combination of competitive grants and programs, and a network of strategic partners, we help entrepreneurs when they need it most. NC IDEA’s resources are highly competitive, enabling the Foundation to support North Carolina’s most ambitious entrepreneurs. We believe entrepreneurs transform communities and view our work as a catalyst for positive change. Learn more at www.ncidea.org.
