Lowe’s offers $2.5M in recovery grants to western NC small businesses hit by disaster

Small businesses located in western North Carolina can apply for grants this week through a $2.5 million fund launched by Lowe’s, headquartered north of Charlotte in Mooresville, North Carolina.

The company is giving 100 grants worth $20,000 each to businesses in disaster-declared communities to meet urgent needs like payroll, rent, or replacing equipment or tools. The home improvement store launched the Lowe’s Western North Carolina Small Business Recovery Fund to support local business development in the company’s home state, according to a press release. Small businesses can apply through this Friday, Nov. 22.

The initiatives are part of Lowe’s $12 million pledge to support relief and recovery efforts in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. In a statement, Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO, said the company wants to assist communities in every step of recovery to help people return to normal faster.

“The economic toll of Hurricane Helene will be felt for years to come,” aid Ellison. “Small businesses are the cornerstones of the communities we serve – not only are they our customers, but also our vendors, neighbors, church members and friends. The faster we can help small businesses get back on their feet, the faster the region can begin to recover. We are committed to supporting our community every step of the way.”

Lowe’s will also host local events throughout the week of Thanksgiving—typically one of the busiest for small businesses with Black Friday—with the goal of helping impacted restaurants and artisans.  

Next Tuesday, they plan to distribute 3,000 family-style Thanksgiving meals, purchased from local caterers, at six Lowe’s stores in Asheville, Banner, Elk, Boone, Marion, and Weaverville, while supplies last. Additionally, on small business Saturday, Nov. 30, Lowe’s of West Asheville will host a Holiday Pop-Up for local artisans impacted by flooding in Asheville’s famous River Arts District, offering  $1,000 grants to participants.

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