Big Opportunities for Small Businesses
Western North Carolina is rich in resources, ranging from colleges of business, to technology incubators and business training programs, that help entrepreneurs and small businesses grow into successful biotech companies. According to Forbes, Asheville ranked as the second best metropolitan area for cost of doing business. Mission Health Systems, based in Asheville, is the state’s sixth largest health system and the tertiary care regional referral center for Western North Carolina. Fermentation is one of the oldest forms of biotechnology and for three years running a national poll has awarded Asheville the title “Brew City USA.” Whether you choose to launch a medical device venture, microbrewery or laboratory supply business, consider Western North Carolina as your home.
Below you will find a number of collaborative opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs in western North Carolina, including:
Small business centers and incubators
Education and workforce programs
Other Resources
Small Business Centers and Incubators
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Asheville Buncombe Tech Community College
Small Business Incubator
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Free one-to-one counseling
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On-site resource center
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- Appalachian State University Entrepreneurial Center
Mentoring
Appalachian Entrepreneurs Community
Business Entrepreneur Summit
Pitch Your Idea in 90 Seconds Contest
- Smoky Mountain Small Business Incubator
Rental Space
Technical Assistance and Business Counseling
Education and Workforce
- Appalachian State University Walker College of Business
- Western Carolina College of Business
Other Resources
Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC)
The SBTDC has the numbers to prove what a valuable resource it is to small businesses. With offices in Asheville, Boone and Cullowhee, the SBTDC offers:
- Small business expertise
- Training and education for business start-ups
- Assistance to community and economic developers
- Leverages university resources
