Greensboro launches small business opportunity program

May 18, 2026 - 01:53

The city of Greensboro has rolled out a new initiative aimed at supporting small businesses in Guilford, Rockingham, and Randolph counties. The program, called the Small Business Opportunity Program, is designed to provide local entrepreneurs with access to capital, technical assistance, and networking resources. City officials say the effort targets businesses that have historically faced barriers to growth, including minority-owned and women-owned enterprises.

Under the program, eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $10,000, along with free consulting services on topics like financial management and marketing. The city has partnered with local economic development organizations to administer the funds and offer workshops. Applications opened this week and will be accepted on a rolling basis until the funding is exhausted.

Mayor Nancy Vaughan emphasized that the program is part of a broader push to strengthen the local economy. "Small businesses are the backbone of our community," she said in a statement. "This program levels the playing field and gives them the tools they need to succeed." The initiative is funded through a combination of federal pandemic relief dollars and city budget allocations.

Business owners in the three counties are encouraged to attend an informational session scheduled for next month at the Greensboro Public Library. The city plans to evaluate the program's impact after one year and consider expanding it to additional counties.