Starting a Business
First steps
Five steps to get started
Every business is different, so start with step 1. A free advisor can tell you exactly which licenses and permits apply to you.
Talk it through with a free advisor
EDPNC Small Business Advisors (formerly Business Link NC) will walk you through the state licenses, permits and tax forms your business needs. Call 800.228.8443, weekdays 8:30 AM to 4 PM, or start online.
Choose your structure and register
LLCs and corporations register with the NC Secretary of State. If you'll operate under a name other than your own, you'll also file an assumed business name with the county Register of Deeds.
Get your tax numbers
Get a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) at IRS.gov if you need one. Selling goods or hiring staff? Register for sales tax and withholding with the NC Department of Revenue. Online registration is free.
Check local zoning and permits
Each Outer Banks town and county sets its own zoning, sign and building rules. Call the planning office where your business will be before you sign a lease: Dare County, Currituck County or Hyde County (Ocracoke), or your town hall.
Connect with the business community
Join 700+ local businesses in the Chamber for a directory listing, a ribbon cutting, networking and a voice on the issues that affect you. Why join →
Free advice
Free, confidential business advisors
Business plans, financing, marketing, bookkeeping and more. These advisors serve Outer Banks businesses at no cost.
SBTDC at Elizabeth City State University
In-depth counseling for small and mid-size businesses: financing, financial performance, market research and growth planning. Serves Currituck, Dare and Hyde counties.
Request counseling →College of The Albemarle Small Business Center
One-on-one counseling plus seminars and workshops on marketing, sales, bookkeeping and management. Call 252.335.0821, ext. 2370.
See workshops →SCORE Hampton Roads
Volunteer mentors with years of business experience, by phone, video or in person. This SCORE chapter serves the Outer Banks.
Find a mentor →EDPNC Small Business Advisors
The state's free help line for starting, growing or relocating a business in North Carolina. Call 800.228.8443.
Visit EDPNC →
A place to meet
The Chamber's Business Accelerator
Need a professional spot to meet a client, sit down with an advisor or get some work done? Reserve the Business Accelerator office at the Chamber in Kill Devil Hills.
Call 252.441.8144 to reserve →Funding
Albemarle Commission Revolving Loan Fund
Loans of $10,000 to $100,000 for businesses starting up or expanding in northeastern North Carolina, including Currituck, Dare and Hyde counties.
Loan details →U.S. Small Business Administration
SBA-backed loans, including 7(a) and 504, made through local lenders.
SBA in North Carolina →Hiring
Northeastern Workforce Development Board
Help recruiting, screening and training employees, including free job posting on NCWorks. Serves Dare and nine other northeastern counties. Call 252.426.5753.
Employer services →Outer Banks Jobs Board
Chamber members can post open positions on our free local Jobs Board.
See the Jobs Board →Not sure where to start?
Call the Chamber at 252.441.8144 and we'll point you to the right people. Looking at the bigger picture? See how we support economic development on the Outer Banks.
