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The purpose of the
Small Business Council (SBC) of the
Jacksonville
· Onslow Chamber of Commerce is to maintain and continually improve
the business climate in
Jacksonville and
Onslow
County. It
serves as a sounding board for small business owners, bringing
community issues to the council and collectively discussing
potential solutions. The Council has a direct partnership with the
Coastal
Carolina
Community
College
Small
Business
Center and the
Military
Business
Center.
The Small Business
Council accomplishes its mission through its members. The Small
Business Council members are a group of volunteer business owners,
managers and leaders who operate new and established businesses in
Onslow
County. These
business owners serve as a personal “help line” for troubleshooting
problems that small business Chamber members may face during their
day-to-day operations.
The Small Business
Council hosts a Small Business Week once a year. The week of events
includes a Business After Hours, Free Seminars and the Small
Business Breakfast which brings the week to a close. During the
Small Business Breakfast the community honors the Small Business
Person of the Year.
The Small Business
Council meets on the 2nd Friday of every month and is
open to all Chamber members. If you would like more information on
the Small Business Council, contact
the Chamber 910-347-3141.
Seven Business Start-Up
Myths:
1. GO IT ALONE
Reality: You needn't go it alone. The Jacksonville-Onslow
Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Area at Carolina Coastal
Community College can provide resources and expert guidance. The
Chamber's Ambassadors will welcome you to the business community and
are available to answer your questions.
2. PASSION
GUARANTEES SUCCESS
Reality: Passion alone can't buy success. It takes careful
research to determine if there is market demand, price sensitivity
and venture viability. The Small Business Center can assist you in
creating a business plan and market analysis.
3. FINANCE WITH
GRANTS
Reality: Grants are not as easily available as tv commercials
make them seem. Onslow County's 6 major financial institutions,
private investors, the Neuse River Development Authority, Inc., the
Small Business Administration, and other federal and state financial
aid programs can be used as funding resources.
4. IT SELLS
ITSELF
Reality: It takes marketing to make customers aware of
your product or service. Onslow County's outstanding signage
companies, printers, newspapers, radio stations, advertising
agencies and the Chamber Voice are good places to start.
5. DISREGARD
RED TAPE
Reality: Government regulations will affect your
business in one way or another, from business licenses to taxes to
health and safety regulations. The NC Business License Information
Office acts as a one-stop shopping for business license information
affecting your particular business. In addition, Onslow County has
many reputable attorneys and accountants who can assist you.
6. MORE FREE
TIME
Reality: Starting a business is a lot of work. Be
prepared to put in many hours of work to make it successful.
Networking opportunities through out the community and through the
Chamber of Commerce allow you to pull from a wealth of business
ideas and experiences that may demonstrate where you can find
efficiencies or help.
7. GET RICH
QUICK
Reality: Most new businesses take one to three years to
turn a profit. Focus on building a strong financial base for future
expansion. The Small Business Center at Carolina Coastal Community
College offers many classes with this goal in mind. |
