Bill > H723

This bill establishes the North Carolina Technology Coalitions Strategic Support Fund, a special fund within the Department of Commerce designed to encourage regional technology-based economic growth. The fund will be administered by the Office of Science, Technology, and Innovation and will provide grants to technology coalitions - regional networks of organizations including private sector, academic, nonprofit, and government institutions focused on specific technology sectors like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum science, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity. To be eligible for grants, recipients must have their principal place of operation in North Carolina and meet specific application requirements, including demonstrating how the grant will advance their coalition's goals. The fund can support coalition infrastructure, such as workforce training, grant identification, and knowledge-sharing events, and provide cost-matching allowances for non-state funding sources. The bill appropriates $10.5 million in nonrecurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with the Department of Commerce retaining up to $150,000 or 2% of the appropriation for administrative costs. The fund will begin operating on July 1, 2025, and will require transparent guideline development with public notice and comment periods.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H723