Our services include not only general business counseling, but also specialized assistance delivered by specific units and personnel within the SBTDC.
Government Procurement & Technical Assistance (PTAC)
The SBTDC’s PTAC program has experienced professionals helping NC businesses receive over $1 billion annually in contracts from government agencies and prime contractors. Our counselors help businesses: identify contracting opportunities; help them understand and meet contracting requirements and regulations; develop bids and proposals; manage contracts; and prepare them for future contracts and private sector sales.
Technology Development & Commercialization
The SBTDC was the first Small Business Development Center in the nation to be officially recognized as providing specialized services to businesses looking to advance, protect, and commercialize their research, innovations, and new technology. Our Technology unit has helped North Carolina become a leader in US SBIR/STTR awards – generating tens of millions of dollars in R&D support annually for our clients.
Strategy & Organization Development
The SBTDC has carefully researched, developed, and applied products and services to fit the increasingly complex needs of today's small- to medium-sized companies. Our work with thousands of owners/managers over the years has led to the creation of a set of specialized tools to help companies focus and accelerate the achievement of their goals. Our strategy and organizational development services help:
- identify strengths, weaknesses in a company’s managerial and operational performance;
- management/leadership teams develop ideas and form a consensus around short-term or long-term plans/actions; and
- enhance leadership skills and effectiveness.
International Business Development
The SBTDC’s International Business Development (IBD) unit assists small and medium sized businesses with exporting. Our IBD specialists are highly trained, Certified Global Business Professionals (CGBP) with extensive experience in international business development. Our goal is to provide export-related guidance and assistance to small and medium sized businesses – enhancing their export success.
Marketing & Research Services
Our team of Market Research Analysts conducts secondary research projects and provides technical assistance in support of our business counseling. This service helps our clients identify and understand current and potential markets – including competition, customers, and industry conditions. In addition, this unit manages the SBTDC’s brand and marketing efforts; conducts research to support organizational projects and goals; assesses the needs of the state’s businesses; and evaluates the satisfaction of our services.
Private Equity Initiatives
Access to capital, particularly equity capital, is a major challenge for small businesses. The SBTDC provides counseling assistance to companies that seek venture and angel funding to grow their business. We have designed highly successful educational programs for qualified investors and growth company entrepreneurs: Becoming an Investor-Ready Entrepreneur and the Power of Angel Investing. In addition, this unit works with angel and venture capital funds to understand their needs and challenges and serves as a statewide resource and liaison to private equity investors. These efforts help to enhance the investment process between and among angels, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs.
Boating Industry Services
Boating industry businesses in North Carolina provide over 30,000 jobs across the state and are responsible for $500 million in sales of boats, motors, and boating equipment annually. Due to their unique business and environmental challenges and the potential the industry holds for future job creation in North Carolina, boating is the only industry-specific unit within the SBTDC. Our Boating Industry Services staff offers business counseling for the state’s marinas, boatyards, boat dealers, boat builders, marine construction firms, and product/service providers. In addition, this unit works closely with the state Department of Commerce to help market and grow the industry and its supply chain in North Carolina.
