Start Your Business Guide
We're here to help you Strengthen Your Business
With 67% of our members categorized as small business owners, our focus is on them. We want to hear your voice, stand tall and support you, and be in your corner every step of the way.
We believe there is plenty of work to do beyond your dream of owning your own business. That is the work we want to help you with.
One idea most people will agree on is that helping people realize their full entrepreneurial potential benefits everyone. Communities buoyed by a strong startup ecosystem thrive. They benefit from diverse job creation that offers residents options for expanding their professional experience and local taxes that pay for the community amenities most of us cherish.
The Caldwell Chamber is your business partner.
We have prepared a few Small Business links to assist you on your journey. Please let us know how we can help you - 828.726.0616
Quick Links to Assist You:
Check out the NEW BUSINESS CHECKLIST LINK HERE
WATCH THIS GETTING STARTED VIDEO from the SBTDC on YouTube
Connect with the CCC&TI SMALL BUSINESS CENTER HERE
CLICK HERE to Schedule a 1 on 1 Counseling Visit with our local Small Business Center
Take a look at the START-UP CALDWELL WEBSITE HERE
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD THE COMPREHENSIVE START-UP GUIDE FROM SBTDC
Access additional funding resources from the NC IDEA WEBSITE HERE
Take a deeper dive and discover the NC RURAL CENTER HERE
More Start-Up Resources can be found from the CAROLINA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FUND
Discover the ONE NC SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM
Schedule a consultation call with the Ashville Office of the SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Frequently Asked Questions
Q - How do I start a business in Caldwell County NC?
- Just remember, you are not alone. There are thousands of individuals just like you who are taking a bold step to bring a dream to life. We are here to help with a few answers to your questions. The Chamber is your GO-TO source for the next steps and we are here to help you launch your new business! Give us a call at 828.726.0616
Q - How do I acquire a business license or permit?
- North Carolina no longer has a state-issued generic business license that will ensure compliance with all requirements. Some businesses may be subject to several state requirements while others may not be subject to any. There are nearly 950 regulatory, state-issued, and occupational licenses and permits, 319 occupational licenses, 498 business licenses, and 80 business/occupational licenses. In addition, a local license may be required for your business. For the next steps contact a Small Business Advisor from the EDPNC - The team is available Monday through Friday between 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at 800.228.8443
Q - What else should I consider before starting a business in Caldwell County?
- Consult with an accountant for bookkeeping and tax purposes.
- Consider obtaining insurance.
- Review contracts with legal counsel.
- Review applicable regulations (OSHA, EPA, Labor, etc.).
- Register trademarks or patents.
- Develop policy and employee handbook.
- Join The Chamber
Q - Who can I speak with to help me with additional questions?
- Call the Chamber First, and let us help answer a few questions for you and guide you along the right path 828.726.0616
- FREE, confidential consultations are available by appointment from the Caldwell Community College Small Business Center, call 828.726.3065 OR Register Online Here
- FREE - Schedule a discussion with a Small Business Advisor from the EDPNC - The team is available Monday through Friday between 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at 800.228.8443
Q - My business has already been established and now it is time to GROW, who can I work with to take my business to the next level?
- The SBTDC - Through management counseling and educational services, the SBTDC helps small and mid-sized businesses increase sales, create jobs, and access capital at significantly greater rates than the average North Carolina business. Our counselors collaborate with each business owner to assess and benchmark company performance and make better business decisions. CLICK HERE TO CONNECT
Q - Are there Classes or Online Courses that can help me learn more?
Absolutely - Here are a few for you to consider:
- Branding Through Social Media
- Doing Business with the Military
- How to Finance a Business
- How to Start a Business
- How to Write a Business Plan
- Is Entrepreneurship for You?
- Marketing for Success
- CLICK HERE FOR THE CLASS SCHEDULE
Promote your business here!
On any given day up to 60,000 vehicles drive on highway 321 through Caldwell County. This website is a way to help them to find things to do while passing through our area. Promote your business here, it's FREE for Chamber Members!
Calling All Small Businesses!
Your Resource for Business Solutions & Innovation
READY TO MAKE YOUR BUSINESS BETTER?
REQUEST A COUNSELOR
Complete the online request for counseling
Our business counseling services are:
- Effective - We have years of experience helping small businesses succeed
- Confidential - All our clients, their businesses, and related information are kept strictly confidential - we will not sell or provide your information to anyone without your permission.
- Free - Our business counseling services are provided free of charge to businesses and entrepreneurs
