Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC)

To help Chamber Shareholders and Investors achieve growth and competitiveness success, we have forged a partnership with one of our state’s most experienced business assistance programs; the university-based NC Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC). The SBTDC has a proven track record of helping businesses develop high-return strategies, including increasing sales, developing new markets, building talent, enhancing leadership capabilities, as well as working with regional partners to “Make your business better.”

As a benefit, you receive preferred scheduling for complimentary business assistance. Schedule an informational appointment with one of their Business Counselors to understand how they can assist you in achieving your goals for growth. 

Hickory Region Office Location: 1090 Main Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28602

K-64 (Kindergarten Through Retirement)

We have the privilege of being a founding partner for K-64, a collaborative public-private economic development through education initiative to connect business and education to meet workforce demands and foster prosperity.  Allow our team to connect you with the K-64 team in order to address your short-term & long-term needs for qualified talent. 

Click here for more information.

Friends of LR Program 

Do you want to market your products or services to Lenoir Rhyne University, faculty, students, and staff?  Consider becoming a Friend of LR by agreeing to offer a discount in exchange for higher visibility. Friends of LR is a community resource tool for businesses within the LR footprint (Hickory, Asheville, and Columbia) 

If you would like to extend a discount to faculty, staff, and students, please complete this form.  Businesses will be added to LR’s website listing of all available discounts, and you’ll receive an LR pennant and window decal so that faculty, staff, and students know you’re a participant. 

This program is free to participate in and is a great way to support LR while also helping grow your business! 

LR Partner Program 
A graduate degree is closer than you think! Lenoir Rhyne University’s partnership with The Chamber provides employees and Chamber partners with tuition discounts in any of the university’s graduate programs and the Equity & Diversity Institute courses!  Click here to find out how you can participate in this offer.