Raleigh Small Business Resources
Starting and running a small business requires resources. There are businesses, government groups, and nonprofits ready to help you.
We’ve compiled a list of Raleigh small business resources and created tools and guides to help you operate a successful business in North Carolina.
Starting a business? Get access to small business resources and support when you start an LLC with Northwest ($29 + State Fees).
Local Resources for Small Business in Raleigh
Using local resources can make a big difference. Here are some of the best local resources for small businesses in Raleigh.
To get more North Carolina business resources, visit our North Carolina Small Business Resources guide.
SBTDC at NC State University
Overview
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Contact Information
Office Address:
1021 Main Campus Dr.
Ste. 200
Raleigh, NC 27606
Phone Number: 919-513-1500
Email: ncsu@sbtdc.org
Social Media:
TRUiC Business Resources
Designbox
Overview
Designbox is a design consulting firm that specializes in branding and launching products. They specialize in building brand identities through websites and intelligent product design, as well as manufacturing, sourcing, and quality planning. Designbox boasts over 30 years of experience helping an international range of clients and primarily work with entrepreneurs who already have experience launching a product (their focus is product design, not development).
Contact Information
Office Address:
413 Glenwood Ave
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone Number: 919-834-3552
The Loading Dock
Overview
This coworking space all of the amenities and services an entrepreneur needs to start a new business, such as desks and internet, mail service, and conference rooms. Some less-common amenities include free parking and onsite notary service. A "co-warehousing" space offers room for companies to store, package, and ship products using label printers and pallet-moving equipment. They also host very frequent networking and learning events that help connect entrepreneurs to new businesses and other community leaders.
Contact Information
Office Address:
1053 E. Whitaker Mill Rd
Suite 115
Raleigh, NC 27604
Phone Number: 919-999-0252
Email: info@loadingdockraleigh.com
Social Media:
SCORE Raleigh
Overview
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
West Regional Library
Overview
The Wake County library system (in particular the West Regional Library) offers many research databases and other services useful to someone looking to start a small business. Most of their small business databases and ebooks are accessible online to anyone with a library card. Some locations also offer educational classes and counseling by the SCORE organization.
Restrictions
A library card is required to access most services
Contact Information
Office Address:
4000 Louis Stephens Drive
Cary, NC 27519
Phone Number: 919-463-8500
Social Media:
