If you are looking to start or expand a business in North Carolina, or just need help solving a problem specific to this state or region, there are a wide range of resources – both government and private – available to help.

While many nationally focused resources offer helpful solutions, some issues are better addressed at the state or local level. Answers to licensing, zoning, sales tax, incorporation, economic development issues and a wide range of other matters often reside at the state level. Ironically, however, finding the right resources closer to home can often be even more difficult, as solutions live in many different places.

Cover your bases by seeking solutions in these places:

1. State government agencies, such as the commerce department, economic development office, secretary of state's office or other business-related state agencies.
2. State and local offices of federal agency programs, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) office in your area.
3. Small business assistance programs offered through local universities and community colleges that are backed by state and federal resources. These include Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and SCORE offices.
4. Private, non-profit and special-interest industry and business organizations that provide a range of services, networking opportunities and even funding options for small businesses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Understand basic business needs

The Business ServiCenter, sponsored by the state's Department of Commerce, can answer many questions regarding your small business. Topics cover business licenses, financial assistance, and tax incentives.

I recommend: Find out more at the Business ServiCenter.

Utilize free business advice and seminars

The state's 58 Small Business Centers host free, confidential business counseling and workshops on various individual business needs, such as writing business plans, financing and reporting taxes. The centers are located on community college campuses.

I recommend: Locate a center near you at the Small Business Center Network.

Discover what small businesses need to know

North Carolina's Small Business and Technology Development Center offers numerous publications and resource guides for small businesses. Subjects include capital opportunities, business start-up pointers, and industry studies.

I recommend: Read about them at the Small Business and Technology Development Center.

Find workers in less time

The Employment Security Commission of North Carolina helps small businesses locate the right employees. You can list your jobs online or search databases for workers using your specific criteria.

I recommend: Get started hiring at North Carolina's Employment Security Commission.

Locate the best business location

Not sure where to base your business? The state's Economic Development Information System allows you to research demographic profiles of the state's 100 counties.

I recommend: Access the database at the Economic Development Information System.

Look at alternative funding for rural businesses

The North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center, Inc. manages two programs that provide capital for rural business startups and expansions. The Microenterprise Loan Program serves small businesses while The Capital Access Program assists small-to-medium sized operations.

I recommend: Find out more at the Rural Economic Development Center.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many types of businesses require state, city or county licenses and permits. State offices listed above will spell out any specific requirements for your industry.
• •  Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are an often-overlooked but terrific place to obtain free or low-cost advice and information, including training seminars and technology resources that are nearby.
• •  Locally-based SBDC consultants can advise you individually on how to write a business plan, market your products and services, find financial resources and other valuable information.
• •  The regional SBA office can plug you into loan and assistance programs, seminars and other initiatives to aid small businesses.
• •  Linking up with a local SCORE counselor is a great way to learn from an experienced individual about state-specific solutions.