Topics Related to Local Governments
Units of local government and nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for assistance through the Disaster Relief and Mitigation Fund (DRMF). Funding can be used for flood mitigation, transportation infrastructure resilience against natural disasters, and engineering assistance grants to local governments to identify and design shovel ready projects. The deadline to apply is November 28, 2025 (no later than 5pm). Learn more and apply.
Local governments and federally recognized tribes in western North Carolina may be eligible for capital grants to repair, renovate or replace infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene. Learn more by attending an upcoming webinar. Apply by November 21, 2025.
Eligible applicants for the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Disaster Recovery Grant program can apply for technical assistance from NCGrowth at the Kenan Institute for Private Enterprise, which will provide Return on Investment (ROI) and Impact Analysis Assessments for a limited number of eligible applicants free of charge. These analyses are designed to strengthen applications from western North Carolina for the competitive nationwide EDA process.Projects will be selected for this assistance at three intervals:
Hurricane Helene-impacted communities can request to receive on-site economic recovery assistance through one- to two-day Resource Team visits that are tailored to meet communities’ unique needs. The Rural Economic Development Division of the NC Department of Commerce will provide ongoing assistance and direct support to help communities implement strategies identified during visits.
Local governments can access assistance with Hurricane Helene recovery through the UNC School of Government. Topics include Local Government Authority, Mutual Aid, Finance, Procurement, Utilities, Public Health, and Planning and Permitting.
Attend weekly trainings offered for first responders, health care workers, volunteers, and others who are looking for tools to support their friends, neighbors, and loved ones during this difficult time. This resource is offered by Resources for Resilience in partnership with Vaya Health.
The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is a FEMA-funded program designed to reduce or eliminate future damages and loss following a disaster. HMGP can potentially help with mitigation methods such as structure elevation, structural reinforcement, and the buyout of damaged properties.
The Hurricane Helene Business Edge Fund offers $500,000 in grant funding for local workforce boards most impacted by the storm to help western North Carolina communities retain jobs and businesses. Workforce development boards in the region may apply for funding and then may provide grants of up to $10,000 each to eligible businesses and community-based organizations. To apply, businesses should contact their local workforce development board or NCWorks Career Center.