Business Resources in Matthews, NC

To start a business in Matthews, you'll need to register your business with the North Carolina Secretary of State, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and secure any required local business licenses and permits from Mecklenburg County or the Town of Matthews. Depending on your industry, you may need additional professional licenses (cosmetology, real estate, contracting, etc.) from the state. It's also important to verify zoning compliance for your proposed business location within Matthews town limits.

Matthews has seen growth in healthcare services, driven by proximity to Charlotte's medical district and aging population demographics. Retail and consumer services remain strong along Matthews-Township Parkway and near Independence Boulevard. Professional services, including accounting, legal, and consulting firms, continue to expand. Additionally, light manufacturing and logistics benefit from the town's location near I-485 and I-77, making it attractive for small distribution and specialized production businesses.

SparkLocal currently lists 0 grants available specifically for Matthews businesses. However, entrepreneurs should explore North Carolina's state-level small business grant programs, Mecklenburg County economic development initiatives, and the City of Charlotte's small business resources, as many are accessible to Matthews residents. The NC Department of Commerce and regional economic development organizations occasionally offer funding for job creation and business expansion. Researching industry-specific grants and federal SBA programs (7(a) loans, microloans) may also provide funding alternatives.

SparkLocal lists 1 coworking space in Matthews, providing entrepreneurs with a flexible, affordable workspace option. For additional options, consider nearby Charlotte locations just minutes away, which offer more extensive coworking networks. Many Matthews entrepreneurs also utilize shared office suites along Matthews-Township Parkway or negotiate flexible lease terms with commercial landlords in the community. Check with the Matthews Chamber of Commerce for current workspace options and recommendations.

While SparkLocal lists 0 SBA resources directly in Matthews, the nearest SCORE mentoring and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) services are available through Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. These organizations offer free business counseling, workshops, and planning assistance to Matthews entrepreneurs. The Matthews Chamber of Commerce also provides networking opportunities and local business support. Additionally, the UNC Charlotte Small Business Center serves the region with training programs and resources for startup founders and established business owners.

Matthews offers several advantages for entrepreneurs: lower commercial real estate costs compared to central Charlotte, a growing and stable customer base, good highway access via I-485 and I-77, and a business-friendly local government. The town's proximity to Charlotte's financial and professional services hub provides opportunities for B2B connections. However, entrepreneurs should be aware that local business support infrastructure (grants, accelerators, SBA offices) is limited, requiring them to leverage Charlotte-area resources. For bootstrapped founders, service providers, and established business owners seeking affordable expansion space, Matthews is a solid choice.