LETTER FROM BYRON HICKS: State Director, Small Business and Technology Development Center.

• Date: 01 October 2023
• Published date: 01 October 2023

Dear Readers,

We are once again pleased to provide the North Carolina Small Business Handbook. This year's edition features profiles of successful small businesses, highlights on topical areas of interest, and resources that can help small businesses navigate through business and economic changes.

Small businesses play a crucial role in driving economic growth and development, especially in local communities. From job creation and innovation to community engagement, small businesses are the backbone of the state's economy and a key reason that North Carolina has been named the "Best State for Business" by CNBC for two years running.

JOB CREATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Small businesses are the primary source of job creation in North Carolina. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses account for 99.6% of all businesses in the state, employing over 1.7 million people in various industries. Over the last 25 years, small businesses have created two-thirds of the net new jobs. These businesses provide opportunities for local residents to find meaningful employment...