With our outstanding convention centers and arenas throughout the state, Esports hubs in vibrant cities like Raleigh and Charlotte, and our engaged, active gaming community, North Carolina has the facilities and the fans to make your next Esports event a success.
‘LEVEL UP’ WITH A 25% REBATE
North Carolina’s Esports incentive, a 25% rebate on qualifying esports expenses and purchases incurred while in-state, demonstrates the state’s continued support for the esports industry.
Available funding for the NC Esports Incentive Grant Program is limited to previously allocated funds, as no funding was provided in the most recent state budget cycle. Funds remain available through June 30, 2027, or until exhausted.
Complete the Esports Grant Inquiry
Contact Us To Apply
For application and more details, please contact Meg McFadden at 919.631.9024 or via email, meg.mcfadden@visitnc.com.
Applications should be submitted at least 60 days prior to the start of the event.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Learn more about the rebate program.
| Incentive Type | Up to 25% rebate on direct spending within the state via funds from the NC Esports Industry Grant |
| Per Project Cap | n/a (note that the program can only officially offer up to $5M per fiscal year) |
| Minimum Spend | $150,000 per event |
| Available Funding |
Available funding for the NC Esports Incentive Grant Program is limited to previously allocated funds, as no additional funding was provided in the most recent state budget cycle. Funds remain available through June 30, 2027, or until exhausted. NOTE: NC fiscal year runs July 1 – June 30. |
| Qualified Labor | First $1 million of each resident and nonresident qualify |
| Loan Out Withholding | Yes; 4% for out-of-state |
| Audit | Independent, NC-licensed certified public accountant to perform audit at cost to the production |
| Screen Credit Required | Yes, including a logo to be supplied by EDPNC |
| Additional Opportunities | Production must also make marketing opportunities available to the state |
| Qualifying Expenses | Goods / Services / Rentals / Compensation and Wages / Fringes / Per Diems / Living Expenses and Stipends |
| Ask for the Application | For application and more details, please contact Meg McFadden at 919.631.9024 or via email, meg.mcfadden@visitnc.com. |
| Sunset Date | Applications will be accepted until June 30, 2027, or until all available funds have been awarded, whichever comes first. |
| Legislation | S 105 (SL 2021-180) – establishing legislation H 334 (SL 2021-198) – technical correction to establishing legislation Download a combined version of establishing legislation & modifications (as of December 1, 2021) Projects are ineligible if containing material that is “obscene,” as defined in G.S. 14-190.1, or is “harmful to minors,” as defined in G.S. 14-190.13. |
Download the NC Esports Industry Grant guidelines.