NC IDEA announced at their 2021 Ecosystem Summit the winners for their NC IDEA SEED grants, including one business based in Fayetteville.
“Today we announced the most ever (nine) SEED grants awarded in one cycle, along with fifteen new partnerships, under the auspice of our ECOSYSTEM Partner Program, intended to further strengthen the infrastructure supporting North Carolina entrepreneurs,” said Thom Ruhe, CEO and president of NC IDEA.
The SEED grants are $50,000 a piece, and offer small companies who receive them the opportunity for faster growth.
“We are empowering entrepreneurs to reach their full potential by funding them directly and working in partnership with others that support their efforts when they need it most. These awards are yet another direct investment in the equitable startup ecosystems of North Carolina that so many people depend upon. It is a fitting way to celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week,” Ruhe concluded.
After three months of competing for the grants, Sani, a South Asian inspired fashion line in Fayetteville, was among the winners.
In addition to the awarding of the seed grants, fifteen Regional Impact Grants were awarded. “This particular grant program intends to strengthen the infrastructure supporting North Carolina entrepreneurs via collaboration and the sharing of resources and networks. Several of the partnerships focused on elevating Black entrepreneurship were funded under the leadership of the North Carolina Black Entrepreneurship Council,” the press release said.
Of the fifteen recipients of Regional Impact Grants, two were in GFBJ’s coverage area. For the Eastern NC region’s recipients, Campbell University was among four recipients. For the Wilmington/Coastal NC and Sandhills Region, UNCP Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub was one of three recipients.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
