The following list indicates federal, state, regional, and local agencies that offer support and information on starting a small business. Each agency is identified by a symbol the shows the geographic area served, and a short explanation of what type of services offered.

 

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (USBLS)
The USBLS is the principal source of federal labor statistical information for Congress and the public. The USBLS maintains 8-10 year growth projections for every industry throughout the United States.

 

US Census Bureau’s Economic Census
Held every five years, the US Economic Census provides detailed data about number and type of industries and workers in any given region, as well as information about commute times and distances, and costs of health insurance and worker benefits.

 

NCWorks Online
Primary source for employment data, including unemployment by county and employment and average wages in NC by industry.

 

NC Cooperative Extension Service (NCCES)
NCCES provides small and home-based businesses with educational opportunities, in various trades, as well as in administration and record-keeping of a business. 

 

NC Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC)
SBTDC provides in-depth, one-on-one, confidential counseling in areas of finance, operations, marketing,, feasibility, strategic planning, capital formation, and business management.

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Lenoir Uptown Business Association
The Association provides prospective and existing businesses in uptown Lenoir with shared publicity, cooperation with the City of Lenoir, and a variety of uptown festivals throughout the year, including the Blackberry Festival in July.

 

Catawba County Chamber of Commerce
The Catawba County Chamber of Commerce is a business association of over 1,300 members. The Chamber’s mission is to help their members’ businesses succeed. 

 

Catawba County Economic Development Corporation
The Catawba County EDC’s mission is to build a diversified economic base throughout the County by recruiting new business and industry, retaining existing business and industry and helping them grow, and fostering job creation.

 

Hickory Downtown Development Association
Serves approximately 85 downtown Hickory businesses. Its mission is to project and promote a positive image of downtown Hickory. Services include an association, newsletter, public relations activities, co-op advertising, locating and promoting available space for potential new businesses, operating and promoting two annual downtown festivals and working closely with the city government on a variety of issues. 

 

City of Conover Planning & Development
Provides inventory of vacant commercial and industrial buildings and land. Provides demographic information, support articles, and market assessments.