Mini grants awarded to boost business growth in southern New Hanover County
CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation has awarded a series of mini grants to local businesses and nonprofits after receiving $25,000 in funding from the Duke Energy Foundation.
The funding, secured in January 2026, was aimed at stimulating business development across Pleasure Island and Southern New Hanover County. The foundation launched a competitive application process, offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support workforce development, technology upgrades and other growth-related initiatives.
Local leaders say the effort comes as the region—from Pleasure Island to Monkey Junction—continues to see rapid growth, bringing both new opportunities and challenges for small businesses. Many are navigating increased service demands, workforce training and retention issues, evolving technology needs and the importance of maintaining the area’s unique character.
Grant recipients were selected based on criteria including innovation, long-term impact and their ability to strengthen business capacity.
Businesses awarded funding include The Fudgeboat, Brass Media, Think Greatly, Bougie Boat Charters, North Carolina Cottages, Seabirds Motel, Island Dog Grooming, Riko’s Thin Crust Pizza, CB Print Shop and 2nd Wave Consignment.
Two nonprofits—Hoppy Tides Rabbit Rescue and Island Arts Council—also received grants to support their work in the community.
The foundation says the program is designed to strengthen the local economy while helping businesses and organizations adapt and grow in a changing environment.
