101 W. Water Street Edenton NC 27932

Starting Your Business in Edenton and Chowan County

Starting a business can be complex. We can help.

Nationally recognized brands, award-winning companies, and internationally known manufacturers, all do business in Edenton and Chowan County. Learn how we are able to attract and maintain such a diverse and exciting mix of industries.

Entrepreneurial vision

Edenton and Chowan County is an unusually entrepreneurial community. Residents start and grow more businesses on average than in other communities.

Engaged government

Edenton and Chowan County have a long governmental history of being pro-business. We understand that communities thrive when businesses succeed, and we are committed to making that happen.

Robust support

With the help of the Edenton Chowan Partnership, get access to federal, state, regional, and local resources designed to help your business grow and succeed over the short and long term.

An abundance of resources

We have the resources and connections to simplify the process and help you make the best decisions for your business future. Edenton and Chowan County is a great place to put down roots and grow your business from the ground up.  The Edenton-Chowan Partnership and the Economic Development Partnership of NC are here to help connect you with resources that will guide you through the process so you can launch your business.

Start Your Business In North Carolina

EDPNC Small Business Advisors is a free service for anyone seeking to start a small business in North Carolina. They work in partnership with the N.C. Department of Commerce and offer consultations and general support to entrepreneurs interested in doing business in North Carolina. Resource Checklist for starting your business:

Plan Your business

get your creative juices flowing and turn your ideas and dreams into reality.

Launch Your Business

Register, file and complete all legal requirements.

Manage Your Business

These are the tools and resources to get your business off to a great start.

Expand Your Business

Funding and resources to help your business grow and expand.

Training to grow Your business

Small Business Counseling and Training - Everything you need for a successful small business.  Training programs in marketing, sales, bookkeeping and more through our local community college

National Institute of Minority Economic Development

This institute features the Women’s Business Center of North Carolina and includes information on developing minority-owned businesses and minority buying power and economic impact in NC. NCIMED may be reached at (919) 956-8889. 

U.S. Small Business Administration

The SBA provides materials and support for  small business owners on taxes and other issues.  Resources that include online classes, newsletters, etc. are also available. They also provide information on lending institutions in North Carolina.  Contact The SBA at (800) 827-5722. 

Find the perfect Location in Chowan county

Locate the perfect site for your business in Edenton and Chowan County.  Shovel-ready lots are available at the Edenton-Chowan Airport Industrial Park and other locations throughout Edenton and Chowan County.   Available Industrial Sites.

Downtown Edenton Sites

Downtown Edenton is thriving. Anchored by decades-old businesses, both visitors and residents flock to downtown Edenton to eat, shop, and spend time. It is the perfect time to join this thriving community.

Colony Tire

Obtain Your Business License

Ensure compliance for seeking the correct business license(s) for your business. There are almost 950 regulatory, state-issued and occupational licenses and permits: 319 occupational licenses, 498 business licenses, and 80 business/occupational licenses.

Chowan County

The Building Inspections Staff reviews plans and inspects new construction, repairs, alterations and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings and other structures to ensure compliance with the International Building Code, as required by the State of North Carolina

Town of Edenton

The Town of Edenton Building and Planning Department assists with new building projects and renovations.



Employer Reporting Requirements

Business reporting can be compliated and confusing. Learn more about how to register as an employer, unemployment insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.