Recently, when more than 120 Greensboro professionals gathered for Action Greensboro’s “AI Fluent in a Day” workshop, only a handful said they’ve built their own AI chatbot. But when the workshop was over, nearly every participant walked out with AI tools they’d created themselves.

Led by Dr. Mustafa Akben, Assistant Professor of Management and Director of Artificial Intelligence Integration at Elon University, and his team, the professional development session addressed one of the most pressing workforce challenges identified in Action Greensboro’s 2025 Talent and Workplace Survey: AI is no longer a buzzword in Guilford County workplaces.

“Our survey respondents told us that AI is here — embedded in data analytics, automation and customer service operations,” says Cecelia Thompson, Executive Director of Action Greensboro.  “This workshop made sure that professionals at all levels, across all sectors, have the tools they need to thrive in an AI-enabled workplace.”

What made this workshop different was its practical, hands-on approach. Akben showed the audience how AI can help generate reports, create presentations, analyze data and produce content. And he didn’t sugarcoat the workplace implications of AI adoption.

“AI is the new baseline,” Akben says. “Your boss will say, ‘I can do this project with AI,’ so you have to make the output better with your human-level skills. What are you bringing to the table?”

Rather than positioning AI as a replacement for human workers, Akben introduced the concept of “co-intelligence,” living and working alongside AI as a collaborative partner. He encouraged participants to use AI strategically: generate ideas, improve efficiency and offload mundane tasks.

“The more you practice with it, the more you see the benefits,” Akben says. “Use AI to advance different parts of your work. You don’t have to use it for everything. Protect the work that’s meaningful for you. Keep the work that requires creativity, critical thinking and personal connection.”

Akben positioned workshop participants not just as AI users, but as leaders who will shape how AI is deployed in their organizations and community.

“You can direct our investment and attention into AI,” Akben says. “We can demand equity, accessibility, privacy, and ethical and responsible uses. It’s our future.”

5 Local Leaders Share Their Thoughts on the Workshop

Throughout the day, we talked to several participants about how they’re using AI and what they learned from the workshop. Here are a few responses:

Heather Renshaw, Chief Advancement Officer, Family Service of the Piedmont

“The workshop provided a lot of ‘aha’ moments on how AI might be useful in my workplace. It spurred me to think about how using AI on small to medium-sized tasks could be helpful.”

Raven Jefferson, Partnership Development Manager, High Point Schools Partnership

“Developing my own AI tool was the most interesting and valuable part of the workshop. It allowed me to apply what we learned in a hands-on way and see the potential of AI in real-time.”

Cassie Dean, Director of Communication & Outreach, Guilford County Partnership for Children

“We are preparing children for a future that will center around AI as a source of growth and knowledge. It is our responsibility to learn to use AI and create a world that is safe, healthy and prepared to handle these changes in learning and development.”

Sarah Hintze, Account Supervisor, Our State Magazine

“AI is constantly evolving, and I believe it’s my responsibility to stay updated on its capabilities and how it could apply to my role and business.”

Dana Clukey, Senior Planner, City of Greensboro

“There are so many benefits to using AI and the opportunities evolve every day. The biggest benefit to me is the time savings that it can offer, but it also helps me think outside the box and spurs my creativity.”

By Jessica Levco

Key Takeaways

• North Carolina has no general state business license, but the city of Greensboro requires specific businesses to obtain a business privilege license or business permit.
• Business privilege licenses apply only to taxicabs and businesses selling beer or wine, functioning as a local tax with annual renewal deadlines and late fees.
• Business permits apply to peddlers, mobile food vendors, commercial solicitors, and massage businesses, with most permits free except for a $50 mobile food vendor fee.
• The key difference between the two is function: privilege licenses act as a tax on specific activities, while permits ensure compliance with zoning and public safety requirements.
• Businesses can check whether they need a state-issued license through NC BOLD, since not all businesses in North Carolina require one.

If you’re planning on operating a business within Greensboro, you may have to apply for a business privilege license or a business permit from the city. While the state of North Carolina has specific licenses for different types of businesses (no general NC business license exists), the city of Greensboro also has specific permitting and licensing requirements that some businesses will need to meet.

Before launching your company, review our guide to the city of Greensboro’s NC business licenses to make sure you’re covered legally.

What Business Licenses Does the City of Greensboro Issue to Business Owners?

While you can find more specific permits (e.g., those for food trucks) on Greensboro’s Permits & Licenses page, business privilege licenses and business permits are the two main licenses the city of Greensboro issues to local companies.

What Is Greensboro’s Business Privilege License?

The business privilege license in Greensboro, NC, is a required authorization for certain types of businesses operating within the city’s limits. Specifically, it applies to businesses such as taxicabs and those involved in the sale of beer and/or wine.

The license must be obtained before beginning business operations, and its renewal is annual.

What to Know About Greensboro’s Privilege Licenses

For more details on Greensboro’s privilege licenses, review the following information:

• Required for: Taxi cabs, and businesses that sell wine or beer within Greensboro’s corporate limits
• Coverage periods: July 1 – June 30 (Taxicabs); May 1 – April 30 (Beer/Wine retailers)
• Renewal deadlines: July 1 for taxicabs; May 1 for beer/wine sales.
• Penalties: 5% late fee per month (up to 25%) and possible retroactive taxes if operating without a license.
• Fees: $5–$15 for most beer/wine licenses, $15 for taxicabs, and up to $62.50 for wholesale beer & wine.
• Multiple licenses: An additional 10% fee for each extra license under the same owner.

How to Apply for a Business Privilege License in Greensboro

New businesses must fill out and submit a Privilege License Application to the city of Greensboro. While you can fill out a hard copy, they have an easy online submission system for applications.

Once you’ve completed the application and submitted it, you can pay for your privilege license at the City’s Collections Division in the Melvin Municipal Office Building.

If you already have a business privilege license, you only need to pay for a license renewal. Renewal payments for beer/wine privilege licenses are due May 1, while those for taxicabs are due July 1.

What Is Greensboro’s Business Permit?

The Business Permit is a required authorization for specific types of businesses operating within Greensboro, NC. It applies to peddlers, itinerant merchants, mobile food vendors, commercial solicitors, and massage businesses that are physically located within city limits.

What to Know About Greensboro’s Business Permits

For more details on Greensboro’s business permits, review the following information:

• Required for: Peddlers, itinerant merchants, mobile food vendors, commercial solicitors, and massage businesses.
• Coverage period: July 1 – June 30 each year.
• Renewal deadline: July 1 annually.
• Fees: Free for most permits; $50 annual fee for mobile food vendors.
• Application timing: Must be obtained before or on the first day of business operation.
• Enforcement: Businesses without the proper permit risk revocation of the permit or business closure.

How to Apply for a Business Permit in Greensboro

New and existing businesses that need a business permit should submit their application via the online business permit application. If you’d like to fill out the application by hand, you can visit the Melvin Municipal Office Building (Room 11, UG Level) or call the City’s Collections Division at 336-373-2501 to receive an application and permit.

These applications must be submitted before or on the first day of your business operation. The accepted application will cover the period of July 1 through June 30, with renewals due on July 1 each year.

Difference Between Business Permits and Business Privilege Licenses

The business privilege license is a tax requirement for alcohol sales and taxi operations, while the business permit is a regulatory safeguard for specific business types with more oversight needs.

The business privilege license applies specifically to taxicabs and businesses that sell beer or wine. It is essentially a local tax on these business activities, with fees that vary depending on whether the business sells beer, wine, or both, and whether it’s wholesale or retail. Operating without this license can result in retroactive taxes and monetary penalties.

In contrast, the business permit applies to businesses that require closer oversight because of their type of activity. Unlike the privilege license, most permits are free, with the exception of a $50 fee for mobile food vendors.

Instead of functioning as a tax, the business permit is designed to ensure compliance with zoning, public safety, and infrastructure use. Failing to obtain this permit can lead to business closure rather than financial penalties.

Greensboro Business License vs. Business Permit Chart

How Can I Find Out If North Carolina Has Any Business Licenses Required for My Business?

While not all businesses will need a license from the state of North Carolina, there’s a good chance your business likely requires one. Fortunately, you can quickly check if your business requires a license issued by the state via NC BOLD.

You can also review our guide to starting a business in NC to make sure all your bases are covered.

Take Your Business to the Next Level With the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

Whether you’re opening up your first business or working on your fifth, the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce can help. We run a variety of entrepreneurship programs to give new business owners the resources and know-how they need to launch their business. Alongside these programs, business owners can take advantage of our networking events, talent development resources, and mentorship opportunities.

Learn more about how we can serve your business today.

Key Takeaways

• High-quality child care for a 2-year-old in Guilford County costs more than $12,100 annually, representing 19% of a median-income household’s earnings.
• While 69% of Guilford County children under six live in households where all parents work, only 31% of children under five are enrolled in licensed child care.
• Early childhood educators in Guilford County earn an average of $13.50 an hour, and nearly half report having used public assistance.
• Business leaders across Guilford County identify child care access as the leading reason employers are losing employees, affecting both small businesses and major employers alike.
• Proposed solutions include expanding Tri-Share cost-sharing programs, diversifying child care funding streams, and encouraging employer-led child care options like on-site facilities or reserved slots.

Recently, at the Weatherspoon Art Museum at UNCG, community members and leaders gathered to face a stark reality: child care in Guilford County is in crisis. After viewing Take Care, a documentary on the state of early childhood education, three local leaders shared their perspectives on how this crisis affects families, employers and the community.

The State of Childcare in Greensboro, NC

For starters, high-quality child care for a 2 year old costs more than $12,100 annually, which represents 19% of a median-income household. To put this in perspective, the moderator noted that her daughter’s UNCG tuition costs about two-thirds of what families pay for quality child care.

What’s Driving the Shortage in Filled Childcare Jobs in Greensboro

In addition, 69% of Guilford County children under the age of six live in a household where the sole parent or both parents work, creating an enormous demand for child care. However, only 31% of children, zero to five (not yet in kindergarten), are in licensed child care. Making matters worse, there has been a 10% decrease in the number of child care facilities in Guilford County since 2019.

And let’s talk about early childhood educators: The average hourly wage for someone working at a childcare facility is $13.50 an hour. Almost half of Guilford County’s childhood educators said they’ve used public assistance.

Melissa Slade Smith, director of workforce development solutions at the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, brings professional and personal experience to the issue. Having worked as a child care educator herself in 2003, making $10 an hour, she witnessed how little has changed over two decades.

Smith recalled a heartbreaking conversation with her child’s teacher.

“She told me that she was going to work at Target because she could make more money,” Smith says. “When she told me her teacher’s salary, it was maybe $3 more an hour than I was getting paid twenty years ago.”

In her current role, Smith sees how the child care crisis is affecting business leaders.

“So many business leaders call me and say, ‘I’m going to lose my employees. What are the resources out there to address affordable child care?’ The number one reason employers are losing their staff is because of child care.”

How Local Business Leaders are Looking to Help

Jon Hardister, former state representative and current president of TREBIC (Triad Real Estate Building Industry Coalition), explained how workforce challenges affect economic development. Representing more than 160 companies, Hardister said that the number one concern that employers have is affordable child care.

With major employers bringing thousands of jobs to the area, Hardister says this is an issue that our community can’t ignore.

“Toyota can afford to provide on-site child care, but not all companies can do that,” Hardister says. “Small businesses are still the backbone of our economy and always will be.”

Meredith Kasten, director of the Early Childhood Center in Greensboro, offered her perspective on what it’s like to run a child care facility. Her program serves 145 children with 48 staff members. She said the only reason she can afford to send her child to the center is because of the staff tuition discount she receives.

Kasten says the current child care system is a “bad business model.”

“Most child care programs rely on private pay,” Kasten says. “Parents can only afford to pay so much. And so those programs can only afford to pay their teachers so much.”

Some families are on waitlists for over a year, and even families with vouchers face challenges because they have to pay the difference between voucher amounts and tuition costs.

“Research shows every dollar invested in early care and education, there’s a return of anywhere from $4 to $16,” Smith says. “If we had more accessible child care in our state, we know that economic output could increase by up to $13.3 billion.”

Looking ahead to what Guilford County could do differently, the panelists shared several new approaches:

• Tri-Share programs: Hardister advocated for expanding the pilot Tri-Share Program, where child care cost is split three ways: the employer, employee and state. “That way everybody’s got a little bit in the game, but if you do the math on that, you’re cutting the cost by two-thirds,” Hardister says.
• Multiple funding streams: Kasten advocates for child care programs with multiple funding streams, including dollars going to child care programs to enable quality improvements and workforce support.
• Employer-led childcare solutions: After Toyota announced onsite child care, many companies expressed interest in doing something similar, Smith says. In addition to on site child care, some companies have explored reserving slots at nearby child care facilities for their employees.
• Learn more about becoming a Family Forward NC® Certified Employer: As North Carolina continues to attract major businesses and compete for talent, companies that prioritize family-friendly policies gain a competitive edge. Greensboro is proud to be recognized as the first Family Forward NC® Certified Community in North Carolina. Find out if your business is eligible.

This event was hosted in partnership with Guilford County Partnership for Children, GenerationEd, Ready for School, Ready for Life, Weatherspoon Art Museum at UNC-Greensboro, and Action Greensboro.

Key Takeaways

• 62% of Guilford County employers cite attracting qualified candidates as their top challenge, while 69% struggle with candidates lacking analytical thinking skills.
• Local companies are adopting AI primarily for data analytics, task automation, and customer service, focusing on targeted improvements rather than sweeping workplace transformation.
• Guilford County’s average employee turnover rate is 17%, driven largely by retirement, family reasons, and low pay rather than dissatisfaction with the region itself.
• Millennials and Gen Z now dominate the local workforce, prompting employers to adapt benefits like parental leave and flexible scheduling to meet generational expectations.
• While 87% of employers recruit within Guilford County, less than half recruit from local universities and only 57% hire interns, pointing to an opportunity to strengthen local talent pipelines.

While headlines about the “future of work” seem abstract, Action Greensboro’s third annual Talent & Workplace Survey provides data from more than 300 organizations facing real workforce challenges today.

From Fortune 500 manufacturers to nonprofits, employers are facing questions like:

• How do you find skilled workers when 62% of companies struggle to attract qualified candidates?
• What happens when AI adoption accelerates, but training budgets stay stagnate?
• How do you retain talent when three generations work side-by-side with different expectations?

“The companies that are thriving aren’t the ones with perfect solutions to all these questions,” says Cecelia Thompson, Executive Director of Action Greensboro. “They’re the ones willing to adapt their strategies based on what the data is telling them. These findings give our entire region a roadmap for building the workforce we need to compete nationally.”

1. Guilford County has an ongoing skills gap problem

The survey confirms what many leaders already suspect: finding qualified talent has become difficult.

For example, 62% of employers cite attracting suitable candidates as their top challenge, while 69% struggle with candidates lacking logical and analytical thinking skills. What’s striking is the disconnect between what employers need and what they’re finding.

This isn’t just a local phenomenon. The survey says nearly 70% of employers nationwide report similar difficulties finding candidates with critical thinking and leadership skills, according to 2025 World Economic Forum data.

The disconnect becomes more apparent when you consider that 53% of organizations report annual training budgets under $10,000, yet 95% provide some form of employee development. This suggests many companies recognize the need to build skills internally, but may lack the resources to do so effectively.

Celina McCrea, community and business engagement manager at Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc. said her team started receiving requests for cost-effective training opportunities among corporate and non-profit partners in 2022.

“The data from this report has allowed us to adapt our curriculum in real-time to meet the needs of our local employers, while continuing our mission of upskilling and supporting job seekers in our career services programming,” McCrea says. “Since we primarily work with overlooked talent, having these ‘hard to find’ skills gives them a major leg-up in their job search.”

Action item: Encourage your staff to attend Lead Your City on Sept. 4 — “By matching sessions with the critical skill areas identified in the survey, this summit helps bridge the gap between what today’s workforce offers and what our local industries need,” says Sarah McGuire, director of synerG Young Professionals. Register here.

2. AI adoption is accelerating

One of the survey’s most forward-looking findings involves AI adoption. Local companies are using AI for data analytics (50%), automating repetitive tasks (38%) and improving customer service (26%). These usage patterns that mirror national trends.

This isn’t the dramatic workplace disruption some predicted, but rather thoughtful integration of AI tools to enhance existing processes. The data suggests successful AI adoption focuses on specific, measurable improvements rather than wholesale transformation.

At a recent community-wide breakfast about the survey results, Dr. Mustafa Akben, assistant professor of management and director of Artificial Intelligence integration at Elon University, talked about the role of AI in the workforce.

“If your employees know how to use AI, their creativity increases,” Dr. Akben says. “But if they’re not properly trained and they don’t have a fundamental understanding on how to use the technology, their creativity flatlines.”

Action item: Learn more about how to use AI —Action Greensboro is teaming up Elon University for an AI workshop on Sept 19. Register here.

3. Retaining employees has become challenging

With an average turnover rate of 17%, Guilford County employers seem to be managing workforce stability better than many regions. However, the reasons people leave tell a nuanced story.

The top drivers of turnover reveal a mix of life transitions and workplace dissatisfaction: retirement (23%), family reasons (18%) and low pay (16%). While some factors like retirement are unavoidable, the prominence of family-related departures suggests that workplace flexibility remains essential for retention.

The survey shows that organizations are prioritizing retention through training and development (69%), improved onboarding (57%) and better workplace culture (56%). However, the gap between intention and investment, suggests many companies may be approaching retention reactively rather than strategically.

Action item: Become a Family Forward NC® Employer — More than 80 Greensboro-based employers earned the Family Forward NC® Certification, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to family-friendly workplace practices. Learn more about why having this seal of approval is a great way to attract and retain employees.

4. Generational shifts are reshaping workplace expectations

One of the most significant long-term trends in the survey is the generational composition of the workforce. According to the data, 77% of respondents report that Baby Boomers make up less than 25% of their workforce, while Millennials and Gen Z now dominate locally.

This shift has implications for everything from benefits design to management styles. Younger workers often prioritize different benefits, like flexibility, professional development and purpose-driven work. The survey shows that 58% of local organizations offer parental leave and 55% provide flexible scheduling, suggesting employers are adapting to these changing expectations.

Action item: Redesign your benefits package — Benefits packages need to address generational priorities. From traditional healthcare and retirement benefits to flexible work arrangements and professional development opportunities, talk to your HR team about what you can offer.

5. Local talent development needs strategic investment

While 87% of employers recruit primarily within Guilford County, less than 50% recruit from local universities and colleges. There’s an opportunity to strengthen regional talent development.

Only 57% of respondents indicate they hire interns, representing a significant missed opportunity for talent pipeline development. Internship programs, apprenticeships and stronger partnerships with local educational institutions could help address both immediate staffing needs and longer-term skills development.

The survey said that only 2% of respondents indicated Guilford County’s community amenities were a factor when candidates declined job offers, suggesting the region isn’t losing talent due to quality of life issues. Instead, the challenges appear to be around compensation, career opportunities and finding the right skill matches.

Action item: Learn more about Campus Greensboro — Through year-round programming and events, we connect talented students with local businesses for mentorship or internship opportunities. If you’re looking for an intern, Campus Greensboro can help!

Key Takeaways

• Downtown Greensboro Incorporated (DGI) is the primary source of Greensboro small business grants, offering programs like the Facade Improvement Program, Catalyst Grant, and Vibrancy Grant for businesses in the downtown area.
• The Facade Improvement Program offers up to $5,000 for exterior renovations, while the Vibrancy Grant provides up to $2,500 for technology upgrades and storefront beautification.
• M&F Bank’s Empowering Growth Small Business Grant offers $10,000 to one qualifying business in Forsyth, Stokes, Yadkin, Davidson, or Randolph County, with strict eligibility requirements around revenue and years in operation.
• Guilford Works offers two training-focused grants: an On-the-Job Training Grant reimbursing up to 50% of new employee training costs, and a Small Business Training Grant offering up to $20,000 for upskilling existing employees.
• Beyond local funding, Greensboro businesses can also access statewide grant programs like the One NC Small Business Program, JDIG, and the State Trade Expansion Program.

Greensboro is home to a thriving small business community, and local business owners have a range of opportunities to secure funding through Greensboro-focused grants. The city and surrounding counties offer various financial support programs designed to help businesses grow, revitalize spaces, and enhance their operations. If you’re looking for a small business grant in Greensboro, our guide covers the top options and other NC-focused business grants.

5 Greensboro Small Business Grants

The primary provider of small business grants in Greensboro is Downtown Greensboro Incorporated (DGI), which supports businesses in the downtown area. If your business is located outside of downtown, Guilford Works and M&F Bank also offer grants to qualifying businesses. As you look for a grant, review the following five grants for Greensboro small businesses:

1. Facade Improvement Program

The Facade Improvement Program (FIP) offered by DGI is designed to enhance the visual appeal of the downtown area and stimulate new investments in local businesses. This program provides financial incentives for renovating building facades to improve their aesthetic quality, maintain the historic character of the area, and provide a better business environment.
DGI offers up to $5,000 for improvements to the exterior of commercial, institutional, or mixed-use properties located in downtown Greensboro. Eligible properties include any structure facing a street, from the roofline down to the ground level. To apply, a simple application must be submitted before starting construction.
Since the FIP fund doesn’t have a set deadline and only provides the grant until funding runs out, businesses should apply as soon as possible. If you’re interested in receiving this grant, review FIP’s guidelines before submitting your application.

2. DGI Catalyst Grant Program

The DGI Catalyst Grant Program is designed to support the revitalization of Greensboro’s Central Business District. This program offers financial assistance to property and business owners who are looking to enhance or redevelop their commercial spaces. The goal of this grant is to stimulate investment in older properties, help increase local sales, and encourage business retention downtown.
The Catalyst Grant focuses on projects that will:

• Boost the local property tax base by encouraging investment in aging downtown properties.
• Increase sales for both new and existing businesses, helping to expand the local sales tax base.
• Aid in complex commercial projects requiring additional financial support.
• Attract new businesses that meet the needs of residents, employees, and visitors.
• Retain businesses that might otherwise relocate from downtown.
• Provide targeted assistance to specific areas of downtown needing economic development.

Before beginning your application, ask yourself whether your business meets an unmet need in the downtown area, how your project will increase vibrancy, and the potential benefits it will bring to the community. If your project will create jobs or significantly increase investments, you may be eligible for this grant.

Review the Catalyst Grant’s guidelines and begin the application by filling out the grant’s interest form.

3. M&F Bank’s Empowering Growth Small Business Grant

The Empowering Growth Small Business Grant from M&F Bank supports small businesses by providing funding to help entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level. The next round of applications will open on August 1, 2025, with a $10,000 grant available for one Greensboro-based business.
To be eligible, businesses must have gross revenues of $750,000 or less, be in operation for 10 years or less as of January 31, 2025, and have no more than 25 employees. Eligible businesses also have to operate in Forsyth, Stokes, Yadkin, Davidson, or Randolph County. Ineligible entities include nonprofits, real estate firms, businesses with ties to M&F Bank, and M&F Bank employees or their relatives.
The application deadline for this round is August 31, 2025, so make sure to mark your calendar if you meet the eligibility criteria.

4. DGI Vibrancy Grant

The DGI Vibrancy Grant is designed to support small businesses in downtown Greensboro with financial assistance for projects aimed at enhancing services, expanding commercial opportunities, and beautifying storefronts. This grant provides up to $2,500 for eligible expenses, including:
New technology for sales efficiency, such as point-of-sale systems and digital marketing/advertising efforts.
Investments to expand services and commerce, such as physical space improvements or new equipment.
Storefront beautification projects to increase the location’s curb appeal, such as painting, signage, lighting fixtures, and outdoor seating areas.
While this grant is not currently available for 2025, it has been offered in the fall of previous years (e.g., the grant was offered between September 9 and October 11 in 2024). To ensure you don’t miss out, stay up-to-date with DGI’s announcements for future funding opportunities.

5. Guilford Works Training Grants

Guilford Works offers two types of grants designed to support businesses in Guilford County by reimbursing them for training expenses. The following grants focus on enhancing employee skills and helping businesses grow their workforce:

• On-the-Job Training (OJT) Grant: This grant reimburses businesses for up to 50% of training costs for new, full-time employees. The training can last from three to six months, and the company will receive monthly reimbursements for wages paid during this period.
• Small Business Training Grant: This grant offers up to $20,000 to established businesses in Guilford County to help improve the skills of existing employees. The training must address identified skill gaps, and businesses can reapply for additional funding in subsequent years.

To qualify, businesses must operate in Guilford County, have at least five employees, and meet other eligibility criteria related to tax obligations and employee status. The application deadline is the last business day of each month, with reviews and decisions made within 30 business days. Review the guidelines for each of these grants before applying.

What Other North-Carolina-Based Grants Are Available to Small Businesses?

In addition to local grants in Greensboro, small businesses throughout North Carolina can access state-level funding opportunities. Some of the notable NC-based grant programs include:

• One North Carolina Small Business Program – Grants to support early-stage and high-growth businesses in the state.
• Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) – A performance-based program that encourages businesses to expand and create jobs.
• Minority Business Development Agency – Grants and resources for minority-owned businesses in North Carolina.
• NC Workforce Grants – Grants to improve workforce skills, such as GoldenLEAF, Customized Training, Incumbent Worker Training, and On-the-Job Training.
• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) – A program offering grants to help businesses expand internationally.

Turn to the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce for Assistance With Greensboro Small Business Grants​

The Greensboro Chamber of Commerce offers a wealth of support for small businesses looking to apply for grants. With networking and mentorship opportunities, educational programs, and access to resources, the Chamber can guide you through the grant application process and help you take full advantage of the funding available to your business.
Learn more about how we can support your business today. If you have any questions about small business grants in North Carolina or our services, please contact us.

Key Takeaways

• The North Carolina Department of Commerce and Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina offer one-on-one guidance for new business owners on planning, structure, licensing, and funding.
• Funding resources like the SBCN, SBTDC, and federal STTR/SBIR programs help business owners understand and access capital, from general advice to technology-specific grants.
• NCWorks.gov and programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit give employers tools and incentives for hiring, while the Greensboro Chamber offers its own talent and workforce guide.
• Business development resources from SBTDC and the Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub, along with programs like Launch Greensboro, support marketing, market research, and business growth.
• SCORE mentoring and Greensboro Chamber mentorship programs connect entrepreneurs and college students with experienced local mentors suited to their business needs.

Whether you’re opening a business or want to grow an existing one in North Carolina, you can find many resources available to give you the support you need to succeed. From new business counseling and funding resources to hiring support and mentorship programs, North Carolina offers a great deal of assistance to small businesses.

Let’s review the primary support services available to help North Carolina small businesses.

6 Types of Support Services Available for Small Businesses in North Carolina

North Carolina has many small business resources you can access to receive assistance with launching, funding, developing, and managing your business. Review the following top support services for small businesses in North Carolina:

1. Support for Opening Your Business

When you want to start a business in North Carolina, you’ll want to contact Small Business Advisors from the North Carolina Department of Commerce. These advisors offer one-on-one phone consultations for people interested in starting a business, counseling them through each step of the process.
You’ll also want to review the advice and resources the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina offers new businesses. With their team, you can learn how to create a small business plan, decide on a business structure, meet license requirements, and gather tax information. They can also help you identify sources of funding and understand your responsibilities as an employer. Your local chamber of commerce may also offer startup assistance and education programs.

2. Funding Resources

Whether you’re launching a business or trying to grow, you’ll likely need outside funding to reach your full potential. The primary funding resources available to North Carolina business owners include:

• Small Business Center Network (SBCN) Funding Advice: Before you look for funding for your business, you can review funding advice from the SBCN. They have multiple resources for business owners who want to be fully informed while they search for funding.
• SBTDC’s Funding Resources: SBTDC has a full guide for capital opportunities that provides information about financial resources available to small businesses. They also have private equity initiatives that help companies receive counseling assistance when they’re seeking funding from venture capitalists and/or angel investors.
• Technology Funding: If you operate a business that performs research and development, you may be qualified for technology-related Federal funding. For example, the Small Business Technology Transfer and Small Business Innovation Research programs offer grants to businesses.

3. Hiring Support

Need help hiring top-tier talent for your organization? The following resources can help you find new hires and receive hiring-related grants or tax credits:

• NCWorks.gov: If you’re looking to hire new employees, NCWorks.gov is a free job search site designed for business owners and those looking for employment in NC. The site gives businesses the tools they need to access labor market data, search for ideal candidates, post job listings, review resumes, and track applicants.
• Grants and Tax Credits for Hiring or Training Employees: North Carolina offers several workforce grants for businesses that want to upskill their employees to better meet their industry’s needs. The Federal government also offers the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which provides a tax credit to businesses that hire people from eligible groups who face barriers to employment but are qualified for the position. Alongside the WOTC, employees can receive tax benefits when they hire and accommodate people with disabilities.
• Local Chamber of Commerce Resources: Your city’s chamber of commerce should have resources for businesses looking to hire new talent. For example, the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce has a talent and workforce guide for finding and retaining employees.

4. Business Development and Marketing Assistance

After you’ve launched your business, business development resources and marketing advice can help it grow. North Carolina business owners can access the following marketing and business development programs:

• Training Programs From SBTDC: SBTDC provides several online training programs for businesses that employers can access.
• Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub Events: The Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub hosts a variety of events designed to help North Carolina businesses grow their business. These events and webinars cover topics like financing, time management, using social media to market a business, and bookkeeping basics.
• Market Research Support: SBTDC and SBCN both offer market research services for small businesses. SBTDC’s marketing analysts can help you better understand and analyze data while creating a marketing plan. SBCN’s marketing research program focuses on ensuring small business owners understand their market.
• Local Chamber of Commerce Business Development Programs: If you’re looking for local business development assistance, your chamber of commerce should have programs available to you. The Greensboro Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of business development programs, such as Launch Greensboro, which aims to accelerate growth for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

5. Networking Opportunities

Knowing other business owners and entrepreneurs in your area can be huge for your business’s overall success. Your local chamber of commerce should offer networking events and opportunities for you to meet other entrepreneurs in the area. Whether you want to talk shop or develop connections with others in your industry, you won’t want to pass up networking opportunities in your area.

6. Mentorship Programs

Some mentorship programs are available for small businesses in North Carolina. Partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SCORE mentoring is a free service offered to U.S.-based businesses or entrepreneurs with a business idea. Once you fill out a mentoring request form and provide your zip code, you’ll be matched with a local SCORE mentor right for your business.
If you’re looking for a mentor who knows your area and target demographics, you’ll also want to check if your local chamber of commerce offers mentorship programs. The Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, for instance, has mentorship opportunities for college students and local entrepreneurs.

Greensboro Chamber of Commerce: Supporting Small Businesses in NC

If you’re looking for small business support services in Greensboro, North Carolina, the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce has you covered. With networking and mentorship opportunities, resource information, educational programs for entrepreneurs, community events, and talent development advice, we’re confident we can help your business reach its full potential.
Learn more about how the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce can serve your small business today.