Choose a topic for more information: Starting a business Finding the right location University assistance Finding money for your business What about incentives? Taxes and licenses University Assistance With a major state university and a first rate community college, the Boone/Blowing Rock area has the educational support your new or expanding business requires. Appalachian State University provides the following: Appalachian Regional Development Institute (ARDI) The ARDI is an applied research and public service program of Appalachian State University. Through ARDI, the University makes its resources, faculty and professional staff available to address economic, business, government, and social issues and problems related to regional development. Also houses the International Business Center (IBC) which provides information, training and referral services to firms interested in international trade. Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) Organized as an inter-institutional program of the University of North Carolina, SBTDC is the primary organization through which the state of North Carolina provides counseling and technical assistance to the business community. The SBTDC’s mission is to support growth and development of North Carolina’s economy by encouraging entrepreneurship, assisting in the creation and expansion of small business, and facilitating technology development and transfer. The SBTDC maintains 15 offices across the state, each affiliated with a North Carolina college or university. Since its inception in 1984, the SBTDC has provided managerial and technical assistance to thousands of new and established small business owners. For information, contact: Appalachian State University, Walker College of Business Contact: William Parrish (828) 262.2492 Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute offers the following services: NC REAL Enterprises, a non-profit organization based in Chapel Hill, NC, works with CCC & TI and other community colleges to provide adults of all ages with the opportunity to become entrepreneurs. In the first year, participants will analyze the local community, choose the business they intend to operate, develop a viable business plan, and seek funding (from NC REAL’s revolving Loan Fund or other sources). In the second year, participants will learn the skills they need to operate their businesses successfully and solve management problems that arise. Throughout the two-year program, students have assistance from REAL instructors, staff, and members of the Community Support Team, a group of local businesses, professional, and community leaders. Applicants are interviewed and evaluated to determine their interest, abilities, and potential for success in the program prior to acceptance. For information about REAL and other programs, contact: Director, Small Business Center Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute 1000 Hickory Blvd, Hudson, NC 28638 (828) 297-2185 Technical and Occupational Training CCC&TI offers an extensive line of classroom and online training in everything from nursing to database programming. Both degreed and occupational programming is available both during the daytime and evening, and online at your convenience. Occupational training is available to employers and employees, both in the classroom and on location in your business. Contact the Director of the Small Business Center for more information regarding training opportunities.