Small business

May 2. May is Small Business Month, and Mecklenburg County is focusing on the entrepreneurs and small businesses that make up the backbone of the local economy.

The Office of Economic Development will host “Township Connections” events across Mecklenburg County in May and June, starting in Cornelius on May 8.

The goal is to connect people who are starting or growing a small-to-midsize business with free county resources. Additional sessions throughout June in Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville.

Register in advance on Eventbrite

The meet and greets will connect people who are starting or growing a small-to-midsize business with free County resources including:

• Business planning assistance
• Small business loans and access to capital
• Credit coaching services
• Government contracting certifications and upcoming contracting opportunities
• Registering as a Mecklenburg County vendor to do business with the County
• Planning and zoning
• Opportunities to network with other business owners