E-Commerce Grant Application

I certify that   Business Name*    is an active, locally owned business located in Mecklenburg County and has operated for at least one year before the date of this application. I further certify that the business holds a current business license, if required.
I understand and agree to the following:

1. Competitive award: Submission of this application does not guarantee funding. Applications will be competitively reviewed and scored, and awards are subject to available funding and final approval by the Mecklenburg County Industrial Development Authority.
2. Purpose of the grant: Any grant funds awarded will be used only for the e-commerce project described and approved through this application. The project must create or meaningfully improve the business’s ability to sell products or services online.
3. Eligible project work: The approved project may include a new e-commerce website, online store, mobile application, or meaningful online-sales features added to an existing platform. General website redesigns, cosmetic updates, routine maintenance, recurring expenses, or social media improvements that do not add or significantly improve online-sales capabilities are not eligible.
4. Performance Agreement: If my application is approved, I will be required to review, sign, and comply with a Performance Agreement before beginning the project. The agreement will establish the approved project scope, eligible expenses, required match, completion timeline, documentation requirements, and other conditions of the award.
5. Project start and completion: Only work performed and expenses incurred after the application is approved and the Performance Agreement is signed will be eligible for reimbursement. The approved project must be completed within one year of the grant award.
6. Matching funds and reimbursement: This is a 1:1 reimbursable matching grant. I understand that I am responsible for paying the full project cost upfront. The County may reimburse up to 50% of approved eligible expenses, not to exceed $10,000.
7. Required documentation: At least two quotes must be submitted with the application. Before reimbursement will be issued, I must submit paid invoices, receipts, proof of payment, and any other documentation or project deliverables required by the County.
8. Compliance with the agreement: Grant funds will be issued only after the project has been satisfactorily completed in accordance with the approved application and signed Performance Agreement. Failure to complete the project, follow the approved project scope, meet required deadlines, or submit the required documentation may result in some or all expenses being deemed ineligible for reimbursement.
9. Continued operation: The business license, if required, must remain paid and active for three years after grant funds are received. If the business closes or relocates outside Mecklenburg County during that three-year period, I understand that I will be required to repay 50% of the total grant funds received.
10. Good standing and program participation: The business must remain in compliance with applicable County programs, ordinances, taxes, licenses, and permit requirements. I also agree to subscribe to the County’s business-resource email list.

By signing below, I certify that the information provided in this application is accurate and acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the requirements stated above.