Mini grants awarded to support business growth in southern New Hanover County.

The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation distributed mini grants after receiving $25,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation, offering awards of $1,000 to $5,000 to local businesses and two nonprofits.

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 in January 2026. The foundation ran a competitive application process and offered grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support workforce development, technology upgrades and other growth-related initiatives. Local leaders noted the effort responds to rapid growth across the region from Pleasure Island to Monkey Junction, which is creating new opportunities and operational challenges for small businesses. Recipients were chosen based on innovation, long-term impact and their ability to strengthen business capacity. Key details: - The Duke Energy Foundation provided $25,000 to the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation in January 2026. - Grants were awarded in amounts from $1,000 to $5,000 to support workforce development, technology upgrades and growth-related needs. - The program focused on businesses and nonprofits across Pleasure Island and southern New Hanover County amid rapid regional growth. - Business recipients included 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. Summary: The program is designed to strengthen the local economy and help businesses and organizations adapt as the area grows. Undetermined at this time.