WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO

Who We Are

The Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is The University of North Carolina’s business and technology extension service.  The SBTDC is administered by NC State University on behalf of The University of North Carolina System, and is operated in partnership with the US Small Business Administration.   

The SBTDC is part of The National Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program, which was founded on the premise of leveraging higher education resources (staff, students, faculty, research) for the benefit of the business community.  In North Carolina, the SBTDC provides that vital connection between the multi-campus University system and small to mid-sized businesses across the state. 

Our Mission
The Small Business and Technology Development Center, North Carolina’s Business and Technology Extension Service, is committed to providing knowledge, education and other supportive  resources that enable existing small and mid-sized businesses, emerging entrepreneurs and local/state leaders to innovate and succeed.  Through the experience and skill of SBTDC staff across our statewide network of 17 university-affiliated offices, we are able to reach and serve a diverse client base and quickly support their changing needs.   

What We Do

The SBTDC has been helping North Carolina businesses grow and create new jobs since 1984.  SBTDC specialists provide management counseling and educational services to small and mid-sized businesses throughout North Carolina. Most SBTDC services are free of charge, and all SBTDC services are confidential.

Business Counseling — The SBTDC’s core service is in-depth management counseling, addressing financing, marketing, human resources, operations, business and strategic planning, and feasibility assessment.

Management Education — The SBTDC also helps business owners and managers, economic and community development organizations, education institutions and not-for-profit organizations develop strategies and action plans to gain competitive advantage. 

The SBTDC’s Market Development Services are specifically designed to aid growing companies in expanding their markets and increasing competitiveness:

Technology Development and Commercialization — SBTDC technology specialists work extensively with technology-based businesses and university researchers in commercializing innovative technologies.  The SBTDC is also the Governor’s designated Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) assistance resource. 

Government Procurement — SBTDC procurement specialists help clients successfully compete for federal, state, and local government contracts.  Services include identification of contracting opportunities, bid package preparation and post-award assistance. 

Export Financing Services — The SBTDC provides assistance with export financing (loans and credit insurance), and is North Carolina’s City-State Partner for the US Export-Import Bank.

Boating Industry Services — The SBTDC actively works to expand growth opportunities and advocate for companies involved in the boating industry (marinas, boatyards, boat dealers, boat builders, marine construction firms). 

Marketing & Research Services — SBTDC specialists provide research and marketing support services for SBTDC clients, primary research on small business needs and economic impact, and special projects such as small business incubator feasibility studies.