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Business Resources

Tips and Resources for Small Business Owners

We want our small businesses to succeed! Check out these FREE North Carolina-based resources for business growth, strategy, planning and creation. Please check back later for resources in our other geographies.

General business information:

  • Business Link North Carolina (BLNC) is a free service for anyone seeking to start a small business in North Carolina. Working in partnership with the NC Department of Commerce, BLNC offers one-on-one phone consultations to people interested in starting a business, small business owners in need of general support, and entrepreneurs interested in moving to North Carolina. BLNC can answer your questions, and help you navigate topics like regulatory requirements, licensing stipulations, small-business training and more.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA) is a national resource for entrepreneurs. The SBA offers a business guide with tools for planning, launching, managing, and growing a business. It also provides guidance on access to capital, federal contracting, and export/trade assistance.

Business counseling services:

  • NC Small Business Center Network (SBCN) offers a variety of programs, services, and resources to help entrepreneurs start and grow their business. Credentialed business advisors walk entrepreneurs through the steps of considering, planning, developing, opening and operating a small business. There is a Small Business Center located at each of North Carolina’s 58 community colleges. Free one-on-one counseling is available.
  • Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is a business advisory resource for growing and developing businesses, specifically existing small and mid-sized businesses. Highly skilled business counselors provide free industry-specific advice and counseling, including business planning, marketing, and legal and human resources. The SBTDC offers services statewide from offices located on campuses of the University of North Carolina System.
  • Women’s Business Center of North Carolina has a mission to promote economic self-sufficiency for all women in North Carolina through entrepreneurship. The Women’s Business Center offers tools and support to establish and stabilize businesses, generate sustainable profits, strategize for future growth, and contribute to the growth and economic development of the community. Business counselors offer one-on-one counseling, seminars and classes on key business topics, review and feedback on business plans, loan package preparation, lender referral, certification assistance and networking opportunities.