Getting Started as a Small Business in Charlotte, North Carolina
We regularly hear from aspiring entrepreneurs who are excited to start a business and want to know where to begin. One of the most common questions we receive is how to officially set up a business, form an LLC, and handle the required registrations in North Carolina.
While Aspire Community Capital focuses on access to capital, lending, and financial education for small businesses, we also believe in meeting entrepreneurs where they are. If you are in the early stages of starting your business, the resources below can help you take those first steps with clarity and confidence.
Step One: Understand the Legal Basics of Starting a Business
Before applying for funding or opening a business bank account, it is important to understand the legal structure of your business and your responsibilities as an owner.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers a clear and beginner-friendly overview of what it takes to start a business, including legal considerations, permits, and planning guidance.
🔗 Charlotte Mecklenburg Library – Legalities of Starting a Business
https://cmlibrary.org/legalities-starting-business
This is a great starting point if you want plain-language explanations and local context.
Step Two: Register Your Business with the State of North Carolina
Once you have decided on your business structure, such as an LLC or corporation, the next step is registering your business with the state.
North Carolina provides an official step-by-step guide that walks you through business registration, required filings, and next actions.
🔗 North Carolina Secretary of State – Start My Business
https://www.nc.gov/working/business-nc/start-my-business
This resource helps ensure your business is properly recognized and compliant from the beginning.
Step Three: Register for State Taxes
Most businesses operating in North Carolina must register with the North Carolina Department of Revenue for tax purposes. This includes sales and use tax, withholding tax, and other applicable business taxes.
🔗 North Carolina Department of Revenue – Business Registration
https://www.ncdor.gov/registration
Completing this step early helps you avoid issues later and keeps your business in good standing.
How Aspire Community Capital Supports Small Businesses
Aspire Community Capital exists to help undercapitalized entrepreneurs grow and sustain their businesses through access to capital, financial education, and strategic resources.
Once your business is legally established and operating, Aspire can support you through:
Microloans and small business financing
Financial literacy education and workshops
Access to capital programs and bootcamps
Guidance on preparing for loan readiness
Connections to a broader ecosystem of business resources
If you are seeking funding, looking to strengthen your financial foundation, or preparing to scale your business, Aspire is here to help at that stage of your journey.
A Final Note for New Entrepreneurs
Starting a business is a big step, and it is normal to have questions along the way. Taking the time to set up your business correctly builds a stronger foundation for future growth and funding opportunities.
If you are just getting started, we encourage you to explore the resources above. When you are ready to focus on capital, financial strategy, and long-term sustainability, Aspire Community Capital would love to walk alongside you.
To learn more about our programs and resources, visit:
Important Note
The information shared on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax, or professional advice. Aspire Community Capital is a nonprofit organization and does not provide legal or tax counsel. Requirements for starting and operating a business may vary based on your specific situation. We encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney, accountant, or business professional for guidance specific to your business.
Aspire Community Capital provides education and access to capital to support small businesses. Inclusion of external links does not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of services provided by third-party organizations.