WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — To give a boost to entrepreneurs in rural and underserved areas in North Carolina and Virginia, Truliant Federal Credit Union has been awarded a $22,840 Innovation grant from the National Credit Union Foundation.

The grant will be used to provide entrepreneurial education, credit counseling, and strategic planning for small business owners in five underserved areas, according to Majorie Rorie, director of community services at Truliant.

“Rural entrepreneurs in particular need greater access to equity capital,” Rorie said. “Our program aligns with the mission of NCUF to 'improve consumer financial independence through credit unions,' by increasing access to loans for low-wealth and rural-based entrepreneurs in underserved communities. We want to broaden financial options for start-ups and growing businesses.

In a pilot funded by NCUF during the first six months of 2008, Truliant has offered financial literacy classes to new and existing members.