# North Carolina Distributes Hurricane Recovery Funds

The North Carolina Department of State Treasurer and the Office of the Governor have initiated significant funding programs to support recovery and economic resilience in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. In 2026, nearly **$23 million** in interest-free Cashflow Loans are being distributed to local governments for rebuilding projects, with repayment due by June 30, 2030. Additionally, Governor Josh Stein announced a **$5 million** allocation through the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program to aid small business recovery, complementing over **$36 million** in grants awarded since 2025. These efforts leverage AI to reduce administrative costs and focus on strengthening infrastructure and economic vitality in affected communities.

- The Cashflow Loan program offers procurement professionals opportunities to support local government rebuilding projects funded through state budget allocations.
- Small business infrastructure grants indicate ongoing demand for contractors and service providers specializing in infrastructure improvements and economic development in Western North Carolina.
- Procurement teams should note the multi-year repayment timeline and the emphasis on efficient fund distribution enabled by AI, which may influence contract structuring and project timelines.
- Organizations serving Western North Carolina should consider engagement strategies aligned with state-led recovery initiatives and potential future federal appropriations for expanded infrastructure funding.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Professional Services, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- North Carolina Department of State Treasurer (DST)
- North Carolina Department of Commerce
- Office of the Governor of North Carolina
- Department of Environmental Quality

### Key Quotes
> These grants will strengthen Main Streets and help small businesses welcome customers. We are committed to being there with these small businesses every step of the way while letting the world know that western North Carolina is open for business.
> — Josh Stein, Governor

> Our commitment to supporting western North Carolina’s recovery remains steadfast. Strong, reliable public infrastructure is essential for long-term resilience and the continued growth of these communities and local economies.
> — Lee Lilley, Commerce Secretary

> Our first priority is providing much needed cashflow relief to our mountain communities by getting this money to them as quickly as possible.
> — Brad Briner, Treasurer

### Sources
- [Nearly $23 Million in Cashflow Loans Being Distributed in Western N.C. | NC Treasurer](https://www.nctreasurer.gov/news/press-releases/2026/09/23/nearly-23-million-cashflow-loans-being-distributed-western-nc) - NC
- [Governor Stein Announces $5 Million to Strengthen Small Businesses in Western North Carolina | NC Governor](https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/09/24/governor-stein-announces-5-million-strengthen-small-businesses-western-north-carolina) - NC