Business Resources & Support

SBBDC is your gateway to resources, funding, and strategic support for growing a small business in South Brunswick County. We connect you to the right partners, experts, and programs to help your business succeed.

Funding and Grants

Embarking on a new business venture in Brunswick County? Access essential resources to secure financing, understand available incentives, and connect with support centers. For comprehensive insights, explore our detailed guide on Understanding Business Opportunities in Brunswick, NC.

SBA 504 Loan Program: The U.S. Small Business Administration 504 Loan Program provides approved small businesses with long-term (10- or 20-year), fixed-rate financing used to acquire fixed assets for expansion or modernization. Contact a local SBA representative at (704) 344-6563 to learn more.

SBA 7a Program: The 7(a) Loan Program is SBA’s primary program for helping start-up and existing small businesses with financing guaranteed for a variety of general business purposes. Contact a local SBA representative at (704) 344-6563 to learn more.

NC Rural Center Loan Programs: NC-CAP expands business finance options by reducing risk and encouraging banks and other qualified lenders to consider loans that otherwise fall just outside conventional underwriting standards. Any North Carolina business with fewer than 500 employees is eligible, and both term loans and lines of credit are eligible. NC-CAP is administered by the NC Rural Center. For additional information, visit a local lender or contact Tom Wall at (919) 250-4314 or [email protected].

Training & Business Development

Looking to strengthen your business knowledge and leadership skills? Gain access to expert-led workshops, hands-on coaching, and mentorship programs designed to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to build a strong, sustainable business in Brunswick County.

Small Business Center at Brunswick Community College: Looking to enhance your business skills or receive expert guidance? The Small Business Center at Brunswick Community College offers free workshops, one-on-one counseling, and training programs designed to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Explore available programs here: Brunswick Community College Small Business Center.

SCORE Wilmington Mentorship Program: Gain free, confidential business mentoring from experienced professionals through SCORE Wilmington. Whether you're launching a startup or looking to expand, SCORE provides personalized coaching, workshops, and resources to help you succeed. Learn more and connect with a mentor today: SCORE Wilmington.

NC Entrepreneurship Hub: Want to build a strong foundation for your business? The NC Entrepreneurship Hub provides online business courses, funding training, and startup resources to help entrepreneurs navigate business development and access financial support. Start learning here: NC Entrepreneurship Hub.

Workforce & Hiring Support

Seeking top talent and workforce training solutions? SBBDC connects businesses with job placement programs, workforce development grants, and state-funded apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring you have access to a skilled and qualified workforce to support your business growth.

NCWorks Career Center & Hiring Services: The NCWorks Career Centers provide employers with comprehensive recruitment services, including free job postings, access to a vast talent pool, and support throughout the hiring process. Employers can post job opportunities and search for potential candidates through the NCWorks Online portal.

ApprenticeshipNC Training & Incentives: ApprenticeshipNC, managed by the North Carolina Community College System, offers state-funded training programs that combine on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction. These apprenticeships enable participants to earn while they learn a highly skilled trade, benefiting both employers and employees. More information is available on the NC Commerce website.

Brunswick County Workforce Development Grants: Brunswick County is committed to supporting businesses through various workforce development initiatives. Employers seeking financial assistance for employee training can explore available workforce grants provided by the North Carolina Department of Commerce. These grants aim to enhance employee skills and support business growth. Details on available grants can be found on the NC Commerce Workforce Grants page.

Business Growth & Permitting

Expanding your business in Brunswick County requires understanding local regulations and leveraging available resources. The SBBDC is here to guide you through the process, ensuring compliance and facilitating growth.

Brunswick County Business Licensing Guide: In Brunswick County, businesses operating in unincorporated areas are not required to obtain a county-issued business license. However, the State of North Carolina and individual municipalities may have specific licensing or permitting requirements. It's essential to consult with state authorities and local municipalities to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

NC Economic Development Partnerships: North Carolina offers a variety of targeted, performance-based incentive programs to support business relocation and expansion. The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) assists companies in navigating these incentives, which include grants, tax credits, and other financial benefits designed to promote economic growth within the state.

Local Site Selection Assistance: For businesses seeking available commercial spaces and offices in Brunswick County, the Brunswick Business & Industry Development (BBID) provides comprehensive site selection assistance. BBID offers resources to help identify suitable locations that meet your business needs, facilitating a smooth relocation or expansion process within the county.

Networking & Community Engagement

Engaging with local networks and community initiatives is vital for business growth in Brunswick County. The SBBDC connects you to a variety of resources to enhance your professional relationships and community involvement.

SBBDC Business Networking Events: The SBBDC organizes regular meetups and events designed to connect local businesses, facilitate knowledge sharing, and foster collaborations. These gatherings provide a platform for entrepreneurs and business professionals to expand their networks and explore new opportunities. For information on upcoming events, visit the SBBDC Events Calendar.

Chamber of Commerce Memberships: Joining local chambers of commerce offers businesses increased visibility, networking opportunities, and access to resources. The Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce provides various benefits, including event participation and business promotion. The North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce offers membership options such as networking events and community involvement opportunities. Similarly, by joining the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, businesses can expand their networks and increase their visibility.