Location plays a critical role in launching a business, and the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to strengthening the foundation for small businesses in our community. New Hanover County offers a thriving ecosystem with supportive investors, incubators, accelerators, engaged business schools, a favorable business climate, and strong entrepreneurial networks - everything an entrepreneur needs to succeed.

At the Wilmington Chamber, we recognize the essential impact small businesses have on our local economy. We also understand the challenges entrepreneurs face: limited resources, evolving customer segments, and shifting goals that demand adaptability. That’s why we take a long-term, relationship-driven approach, working closely with small business leaders to understand their unique opportunities and obstacles. Our goal is to help eliminate barriers, enabling businesses to grow and thrive.

If you’d like to connect, please reach out to Josh Hallingse, Vice President of Small Business Development & Retention, at hallingse@wilmingtonchamber.org. We look forward to learning about your business.

One Million Cups Wilmington

As part of the national One Million Cups movement, the Wilmington chapter hosts weekly gatherings where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to a supportive audience of peers, mentors, and community leaders. This program fosters collaboration, idea exchange, and problem-solving, while also offering entrepreneurs invaluable feedback and networking opportunities in a low-pressure environment.

VentureSouth – Wilmington Chapter

An angel investment network that fuels early-stage companies with critical funding and mentorship. VentureSouth connects entrepreneurs with accredited investors who provide not only capital but also strategic guidance and industry expertise. By building these relationships, local startups can accelerate growth, gain access to new markets, and scale sustainably.

Finding funding is often one of the biggest challenges for small businesses. Fortunately, there are several resources available locally and regionally:

• Small Business Administration (SBA) – Provides loan guarantees, microloans, and disaster assistance. Local SBA District Office: North Carolina District Office.
• Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) – Organizations like Thread Capital and Self-Help Credit Union provide loans to small businesses and entrepreneurs who may not qualify through traditional banks.
• Local Lenders – Regional banks and credit unions, such as Live Oak Bank (headquartered in Wilmington and the nation’s largest SBA lender), First National Bank, Atlantic Union Bank, and First Citizens Bank, all provide tailored small business products.
• Angel & Venture Capital – Beyond traditional loans, early-stage businesses can explore VentureSouth Wilmington, an angel investment network supporting startups across the Southeast.

No business grows alone. Wilmington entrepreneurs have access to free and low-cost business counseling, mentorship, and planning support:

• SCORE Cape Fear Region – Experienced mentors offering free, confidential guidance for entrepreneurs.
• Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) – Based at UNCW, provides in-depth counseling for business strategy, growth, and exporting.
• UNCW Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) – A hub for startups, connecting them to mentorship, resources, and university talent.
• Genesis Block – Focused on minority- and women-owned businesses, offering a structured startup accelerator and mentoring programs.
• Channel, powered by Live Oak Bank – A platform connecting entrepreneurs with expertise, funding, and resources to help small businesses grow. 

Innovation often starts with collaboration. Wilmington is home to a growing ecosystem of hubs, networks, and resources that support entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. These organizations help connect ideas to capital, provide space to grow, and foster the partnerships that turn vision into reality.

• UNCW Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) – Co-working space, mentorship, and programming for startups and early-stage ventures.
• Network for Entrepreneurs in Wilmington (NEW) – Events and community designed to connect startups with mentors, investors, and peers.
• North Carolina Biotechnology Center – Southeastern Office – Expanding opportunities in life sciences and biotech through funding, networking, and support.
• NC IDEA – Statewide foundation providing grants, mentorship, and programs to support early-stage companies. 

Economic Snapshot

An overview of current economic trends in southeastern North Carolina, including employment rates, population growth, housing starts, and business investment. Updated quarterly, this resource highlights the momentum of our local economy and tracks shifts that may impact strategic decision-making.