Business Resources
Face Coverings Signs for Businesses
Businesses and workplaces can download signage to post in prominent places, to help educate and inform residents and visitors about face coverings.
Reopening & Safety Guidance
- Smart Restart (Wilmington Chamber of Commerce)
- Fire and Safety Checklist for Reopening a Building (National Fire Protection Association)
- Guidance for businesses (NC Department of Health and Human Services)
- Guidance for veterinarians and animal services (NC Department of Health and Human Services)
- CDC community guidance
- Coronavirus Relief Options (US Small Business Administration)
Business & Employer Resources
- Financial Support for Small Businesses – Information for small businesses about loans and other financial assistance available from state sources
- Unemployment Insurance – Information and frequently asked questions for employers related to COVID-19 and unemployment insurance
- IT & Cybersecurity – Resources and assistance from trusted state vendors, free and affordable internet service offerings, as well as cybersecurity tips for teleworking, video conferencing and avoiding phishing scams
- More Business Resources – Find out about supply chain, business counseling services and more from the N.C. Department of Commerce
The Business Emergency Operations Center (BEOC) is a central point for businesses to reach out in the event they need assistance. The BEOC also serves as a connection between the New Hanover County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and businesses that might have goods or services needed by the EOC to perform their duties. The BEOC was formed after Hurricane Florence with the hope that no businesses fall through the cracks during any future disasters in our area.
The Wilmington Chamber is serving as the key partner with the county to set up the Business EOC. The dedicated phone number for the BEOC is 910-762-2611. The email address is businesseoc@wilmingtonchamber.org.
Reopening & Safety Guidance
COVID-19 Relief Programs for Businesses & Nonprofits
New Hanover County launched a variety of financial aid and COVID-19 relief programs utilizing American Rescue Plan funds in response to the needs of our community. A $4.5 million grant program for businesses, established in collaboration with the city, and a $700,000 grant program for nonprofits, were established in the summer of 2021. Applications for both grant programs have now closed. In addition, New Hanover County provided $1.3 million in Small Business Grants through CARES Act funding in June 2020.