Special to IFN
Duke Energy Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant to Mitchell Community College’s Small Business Center to support its efforts to strengthen small businesses in Iredell County.
The grant is part of Duke Energy Foundation’s statewide commitment of $500,000 to boost local economies by supporting small businesses. Twenty nonprofit organizations across North Carolina, including Mitchell Community College, were selected to receive $25,000 grants. These funds will provide awards of up to $5,000 to individual small businesses for renovations, equipment, technology upgrades, inventory, and other critical needs.
“Mitchell Community College is proud to partner with Duke Energy Foundation to empower local entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Tim Brewer, President of Mitchell Community College. “Small businesses are the backbone of Iredell County’s economy, and this initiative reflects our commitment to fostering growth and innovation in our community.”
Mitchell’s Small Business Center is launching PowerUp Iredell: Business Accelerator & Pitch Competition, an eight-week business accelerator designed to strengthen both startups and existing businesses in Iredell County.
The program includes hands-on training, one-on-one counseling, and a Pitch Competition where participants can compete for Impact Awards to fund business improvements. Mitchell’s SBC will award three $5,000 grants and three $2,500 grants to winning businesses.
“We believe the business community must promote the spirit of entrepreneurship among aspiring and existing business owners,” said Suzanne Wallace, director of Mitchell’s Small Business Center. “This competition encourages business growth, supports job creation, and—most importantly—helps businesses plan for success.”
For Duke Energy, the impact is clear.
“Supporting small businesses boosts local economic activity, which has a positive impact on the communities and customers we serve,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s state president for North Carolina. “We’re proud to work alongside our community partners to help entrepreneurs and local businesses make their dreams a reality.”
Program Details
• Application Deadline: January 16, 2026
• Sessions: Tuesdays, 6–7:30 p.m., from January 27–March 17
• Location: Mitchell Technology & Workforce Development Center, 701 W. Front Street, Statesville
• Pitch Competition: March 24
Interested in participating?
Contact Bailey Williamson, administrative assistant, at 704-878-3226 or bwilliamson@mitchellcc.edu.
LEARN MORE
To learn more about Mitchell’s Small Business Center resources and workshops, visit mitchellcc.edu/small-business-center/.