Duke Energy Launches $175,000 Grant for South Carolina Downtowns

State government entities and registered nonprofits may apply for individual grants reaching up to $10,000. According to Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina state president, the program prioritizes local concepts that transform neighborhood centers into vibrant gathering spaces. The funding is designed to support a wide range of physical improvements, including facade renovations, streetscape upgrades, landscaping, and the installation of wayfinding signage linked to existing master plans.

Beyond structural enhancements, the grants are available for downtown greenway connections and small business incentive programs. Interested organizations must submit their applications before the August 31 deadline. This initiative is managed by the Duke Energy Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Charlotte-based energy holding company, which distributes over $30 million annually to support the regions served by its electric and natural gas utilities.