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REAL HELP. REAL PEOPLE.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN.
EQUITY OVER ACCESS.
UPLIFTING FUTURE LEADERS.
Our
Rise Up is a grassroots initiative based in Johnston County, dedicated to bridging historic opportunity gaps for underrepresented entrepreneurs—including women-led and minority-led businesses, as well as youth entrepreneurs ages 13+.
While our grant program focuses on these groups, our Rise Up Challenge Hub and business & digital support services are open to all entrepreneurs, providing visibility, practical tools, and resources to grow their businesses.
We offer layered opportunities and multiple levels of support—prioritizing funding where it’s most needed while ensuring every entrepreneur has a chance to succeed. Our mission is to empower the next generation of business owners, foster community engagement, and make entrepreneurship attainable for everyone.
Mission
“I created Rise Up because too many dreamers get stuck at the starting line—held back by lack of funding, lack of support, or just not knowing where to begin. This isn’t just about handing out money. It’s about showing up for people with hustle and heart—by offering grants, digital tools, and real guidance to help turn ideas into income.”
- Candice Bustamante
Community Grants
Supporting
WOMEN
MINORITY
YOUTH
-led,
-led
+
entrepreneurs (13+)
We award small business grants to help kickstart new ventures or grow existing small businesses. Whether you’re dreaming of starting a candle business, running a food truck, or expanding a community-based service, this grant is for you.
The Rise Up Grant is specifically for, underrepresented entrepreneurs who:
-
Identify as a woman or a minority
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Are youth (ages 13+) with bold ideas and big goals
Our support goes beyond funding, click more info to learn more about the Rise Up Grant, how it works, and what recipients receive.
Ready to apply? Hit the Apply Now button to get started!
We don't hand out chances
We
ignite
revolutions
Business Solutions
Website Builds
Custom
You don't have to apply for a Rise Up Grant to benefit. Our business and digital support services are open to all, no matter where you’re located or where you're starting - our support meets you right where you are.
We offer grant-style priced services, built with affordability in mind and offered at roughly 50% reduced market rate, including:
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Custom website set up and design
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Securing your domain name (so your business owns it, not a hosting company)
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Support registering your business
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Google Business Profile setup assistance
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Applying for Business Certifications
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Notary service
These services are designed to help your business grow and be seen.
No tech experience? No problem.
No pressure—just real support to help you rise.
+
Business
Spotlight
Welcome to our Business Spotlight section, where we shine a light on our amazing Rise Up Challenge Hub recipients.
These businesses are more than just brands — they’re changemakers, innovators, and leaders who are transforming our community one step at a time.
From bold ideas to meaningful impact, each spotlighted business represents the heart of local progress.
Check them out and get inspired!
Monthly challenges, cash prizes, AND
business spotlight opportunities?!?
Click here!
The More You Know The More You Grow.