City of Hickory Business e-Newsletter | September 2025
Seeking Nominations for 2025
Business. Well Crafted. Awards
The City of Hickory Business Development Committee (BDC) is currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Business. Well Crafted. Awards program.
The City of Hickory’s Vision for Economic Vitality is to establish a diversified and sustainable economy through the growth of business opportunities, jobs, tax base, and population, and to improve the quality of life for its citizens. The BDC’s Business. Well Crafted. Awards program seeks to recognize businesses and individuals that support and affirm this vision.
To nominate an individual, business, or organization, please complete the online nomination form, which can be found at the link below, by Oct. 3. Please direct any questions about the program to Business Development Coordinator Amy Le at ale@hickorync.gov.
Calling all outdoor recreation businesses! Please join us for the next Outdoor Business Networking Event on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 6 p.m. at Outdoor Supply Company (2427 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601).
This is an opportunity to :
Connect with fellow business owners and partners in the vibrant outdoor industry.
Hear brief remarks from Mandy Hildebrand of the Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau about their resources and the ways they are marketing the region's outdoor amenities to bring visitors to the area.
The event is a chance to build relationships, discuss next steps in building a regional chapter of the Outdoor Business Alliance, and contribute to the growth of our local outdoor scene. Light snacks will be provided. RSVP by Sept. 29 to let us know you're coming!
Chart Your Path with Mountain BizWorks Fall Courses
Plan your fall learning adventure with Mountain BizWorks’ Trail Map! Harness the power of connections, commit to your goals, and learn the skills you need to help your small business thrive—through recovery and beyond.
Choose the topics you need to strengthen your business, and connect to a network of peer support to Recover Forward this season!
Mountain BizWorks is a U.S. Treasury certified non-profit Community Development Financial Institution or CDFI, with the mission to build a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial community in Western North Carolina by helping small businesses start, grow, and thrive.
Whether you are looking for a commercial property to purchase, buy, or lease in Hickory City Limits, the City of Hickory's Planning Department, particularly the Permit Center, is a great resource that is available to you. You can call the Permit Center at 828-323-7410, or visit them on the second floor of City Hall. Get ready to share information such as the property address and the purpose of use, so they can help you navigate through the permitting process.
The City of Hickory is committed to promoting business and economic development and offers a range of incentives to new and expanding businesses. For more information on available programs and incentives, visit Business Developmentor contact Dave Leonetti in the Office of Business Development at 828-323-7422.
