NC Lt. Governor talks small business

Small business owners in the Greater Wilmington area had the chance to express some of their concerns to the lieutenant governor Monday. Walter Dalton is on a state-wide tour to hear the needs of small businesses.

Small business accounts for 70 percent of the new jobs in our state. With unemployment at 10.8 percent in North Carolina Dalton said it is important to support the job providers. “The Small Business Assistance Fund is really targeted for those existing businesses that have been very viable and vibrant, but because of the downturn in the economy are struggling,” he said.

The fund would provide low interest loans for small business owners.

Dalton also spoke about tax incentives for small businesses to help increase hiring.

The business owners said the discussion was important in helping them feel relevant and supported on the state level.