Small Business Research Loan for Early-Stage Life Sciences Companies

About this program

The North Carolina Biotechnology Center’s Small Business Research Loan provides $150,000–$350,000 in financing to innovative, early-stage life sciences companies for research, development, and business activities that advance commercialization and investor or partnering opportunities. Loans feature a five-year fixed-term balloon note, an interest rate of the Wall Street Prime rate plus 2% capped at 7%, and a stock warrant. Eligible applicants must maintain a significant operating presence and business registration in North Carolina, develop a commercially promising life sciences product or technology, demonstrate robust technical proof of principle, maintain dedicated management with at least one North Carolina-based member working 30 hours per week, and hold necessary intellectual property licenses. Pre-applications are invitation-only following eligibility discussions and are accepted quarterly, with deadlines beginning May 26, 2026.