News Summary
North Carolina has launched the Starters Coalition to bolster small businesses facing economic changes. The coalition offers resources and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs. Local leaders participated in discussions to enhance profitability and growth. As part of a national initiative, this coalition aims to assist small business networks across the country. While challenges persist, small business owners express optimism about future prospects.
North Carolina Launches New Initiative to Support Small Businesses Amid Changing Local Business Environment
North Carolina has introduced a new coalition aimed at bolstering small businesses faced with significant regional and economic shifts. The North Carolina Starters Coalition officially launched today, targeting entrepreneurs and small business owners within the state and beyond.
New Support Efforts and Local Leadership Involvement
The coalition was formed to provide resources, guidance, and networking opportunities for small businesses seeking to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape. Local leaders, including business advocates and government officials, participated in discussions about how the coalition can best support small business profitability and growth.
Regional Business Rankings and Economic Drivers
Data indicates a positive outlook for North Carolina’s major cities. Wallet Hub ranked Raleigh 9th and Durham 12th in the list of Best Large Cities to Start a Business in 2025. Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell highlighted the importance of small businesses as critical to the area’s economic development. She acknowledged the challenges these businesses face, particularly related to obtaining permits and securing necessary financing to grow and sustain operations.
National Expansion of the Coalition
The North Carolina Starters Coalition is part of a broader initiative that spans several other U.S. cities, aiming to strengthen small business networks nationwide. This expansion supports entrepreneurs confronting a variety of local and national economic challenges, offering tailored solutions for different markets.
Case Study: Changes at Crabtree Valley Mall
In other regional economic news, longtime operator Dana Avitan, affiliated with Crabtree Valley Mall, is facing a significant disruption as the mall’s new owners request RMU operators to vacate by the end of September. The RMUs, or rotating merchant units, are typically vital for retail businesses during the peak holiday shopping season, which makes this closure particularly impactful. Crabtree Valley Mall is undergoing a $60 million renovation following its acquisition by California-based Macerich Company.
The renovation aims to modernize the shopping environment by creating a more open layout designed to improve traffic flow and to lure new retail outlets and dining options. This redevelopment aligns with the mall’s strategic goal to enhance customer experience and increase foot traffic.
Impact on Local Small Businesses
Operators like Avitan and other RMU entrepreneurs express surprise and concern about the abrupt notice, especially given the upcoming holiday season, which is traditionally lucrative for retail businesses. Some operators, such as Terrance Taylor from Nazar Fragrances, indicated that they had planned to relocate by January 2026 and see these changes as an opportunity for innovation and growth. However, the short notice limits immediate options for relocation.
Small Business Outlook and Economic Sentiment
Recent surveys reflect cautiously optimistic sentiments among small business owners. Nationwide, 84% of small business owners feel optimistic about their future prospects. In Raleigh specifically, concerns about inflation persist, with 51% of local owners citing higher prices as a major risk to their operations.
Despite these challenges, a significant proportion of owners maintain positive views of both the local and national economies, and many anticipate continued economic growth at the local level. Confidence remains high that the region will navigate the current economic risks successfully.
Summary
The launch of the North Carolina Starters Coalition illustrates concerted efforts to support small businesses amid regional change and economic uncertainty. While developments like the Crabtree Valley Mall reorganization signal ongoing transformation within local retail environments, small business owners remain optimistic about long-term growth opportunities despite inflation and other risks.
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Additional Resources
- ABC11: North Carolina Starters Coalition Launched
- News Observer: North Carolina Small Business Support
- WRAL: Crabtree Valley Mall Renovation Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
- Google Search: North Carolina Small Businesses
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
