Get up to 2% cashback** redeemed to your personal bank account. Chat with us.

Tax Credits For Startups In North Carolina

Explore lucrative Tax Credits For Startups In North Carolina and boost your business's financial health with state incentives.

Lisa Shmulyan
Accounting & Tax
February 15, 2024

North Carolina stands out as a top state for business. It offers many business incentives and tax breaks. This includes help for various fields like manufacturing, training, film, and redevelopment. Businesses get a lot of support to start and grow at both state and local levels. They enjoy benefits like investment grants, less bureaucracy, and a friendly economic development environment.

The One North Carolina Small Business Program was kicked off in 2006 and has been a game changer1. It has helped keep over 1,200 jobs in the state1. Over 400 small businesses have made big steps in fields like biotech, software, and more1. A noteworthy 70% of these businesses have stayed open, showing North Carolina's strong support system1.

These small businesses have also brought in over $8 billion from outside investors1. This shows how appealing North Carolina is for those looking to back innovative ventures. The state makes it easier for new businesses to flourish with tax credits, economic boosts, and exemptions.

Key Takeaways

  • North Carolina provides a robust range of business incentives and tax exemptions for startups.
  • The One North Carolina Small Business Program has created and retained over 1,200 jobs1.
  • More than 400 businesses in high-tech sectors have benefited from state programs1.
  • Participating businesses have attracted over $8 billion in external investment1.
  • 70% of small businesses that received support have remained operational1.

Understanding State Incentives for Startups

The North Carolina Department of Commerce is key in offering economic incentives for startups. These incentives make the state a great place for businesses to grow. There are two main programs: the Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) and the One North Carolina Fund, which help companies expand or move to North Carolina.

Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG)

The JDIG program supports job creation and business growth with cash grants. It's run by the North Carolina Department of Commerce. For startups, this means less taxes and more opportunities for innovation in North Carolina.

Companies meeting certain goals can get grants based on the income tax collected from new jobs. JDIG helps startups by creating quality jobs and boosting the economy. Getting JDIG benefits shows a company's strong commitment to local jobs and community improvement.

One North Carolina Fund

The One North Carolina Fund helps companies with financial support to create jobs and invest in the state. It's managed by the North Carolina Department of Commerce. The aim is to make North Carolina a top choice for business growth with direct financial aid.

Eligible businesses get help with costs like building, equipment, and improving infrastructure. This ease of entry is crucial for startups to grow and strengthen the local economy. The One North Carolina Fund is key in supporting startups, providing grants for development and innovation.

The JDIG and the One North Carolina Fund work together to make North Carolina attractive to startups. They lower financial hurdles and offer resources needed for development2.

Local Incentives to Reduce Business Costs

North Carolina provides many incentives to support new businesses. These include investment grants and job incentive grants. They are essential for startup job growth and in boosting the local economy. Grants offer money helping to start new jobs.

Investment and Job Incentive Grants

In North Carolina, local counties give out special grants for new companies. For example, the North Carolina Biotechnology Center gives low-interest loans to new biotech firms3. The Job Development Investment Grant also helps cover expenses for businesses expanding or moving to North Carolina3.

Regional Economic Development

Programs like the One North Carolina Fund provide cash grants to encourage jobs and investment3. This initiative has helped create over 1,200 jobs across the state. It has aided more than 400 small businesses in developing high-tech solutions1. Additionally, the Small Business Credit Initiative makes more money available for starting or growing businesses. This is key for creating more jobs in the area3.

To fully understand North Carolina's business incentives and tax breaks, visit the North Carolina Southeast website for more details3.

Federal Tax Requirements for North Carolina Businesses

For businesses in North Carolina, understanding federal tax rules is key. You need to follow these rules and avoid penalties. It's important to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and file your federal taxes properly.

Registering for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Getting an EIN is the first step for North Carolina businesses. This number is a must for dealing with taxes and other business tasks, like hiring and opening bank accounts. You can apply for an EIN online at the IRS website4.

Filing Federal Tax Returns

Filing taxes on time is part of following IRS rules. The forms you need depend on how your business is set up. For example, corporations use Form 1120 and sole proprietors use Schedule C.

Remember, the type of business you have affects your taxes. And meeting deadlines helps avoid extra fees5.

Tax rates change based on where your business is and how it's structured. For instance, corporations pay a 21% tax rate. Understanding these rates can really help, especially for new businesses6. Small businesses should also look into tax breaks to save money4. Check out this guide for info on tax credits.

In short, knowing and sticking to federal tax rules is crucial for your North Carolina business. It helps with getting an EIN and staying on top of your taxes.

The New Market Tax Credit Program

The New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) program boosts economic growth in underdeveloped areas. It uses community development incentives to draw investments. This program is key to spurring investment in North Carolina, especially in areas with high poverty or unemployment.

North Carolina has made great use of the NMTC program to support new businesses. By providing low-interest business loans, it helps communities grow economically. Community Development Entities (CDEs) are important because they invest in community facilities and businesses through the NMTC program7.

Big financial players like J.P. Morgan are central to the NMTC's success. They offer a wide range of services, like tax credit equity and construction management. These services are crucial for projects such as schools and health clinics7.

The state offers many incentives for economic development. North Carolina ranks among the top ten states with attractive credits and incentives. Noteworthy programs include the Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) and the One North Carolina Fund. They offer cash refunds and grants to various sectors8.

The combined efforts of the NMTC program, state, and local incentives provide a strong strategy. They help revive economically distressed areas. By making strategic investments, North Carolina is drawing in and supporting new businesses. This contributes to the larger goal of revitalizing the region's economy.

Foreign Trade Zones in North Carolina

In North Carolina, companies gain big by being in Foreign Trade Zone 214 and 93. These zones offer perks like no duties and tax breaks on imports. Businesses doing manufacturing, storing, or distributing can save a lot9.

These zones help businesses save on imports and support both local and global trade. They're great for firms with lots of imports or complex supply networks. The perk of delaying duty payments boosts their finances9.

Foreign Trade Zone 214 is in Southeast North Carolina, and Zone 93 is also key. They attract global companies with their cost-saving benefits9.

The impact of these zones goes beyond the companies. North Carolina's Commerce Department helps foreign firms with teams and incentives. This helps the local job scene and grows sectors like aerospace and automotive109.

These zones also make North Carolina an appealing place for business. The state has multiple support programs for startups. You can learn about these here10.

Overall, Foreign Trade Zones 214 and 93 in North Carolina are excellent for businesses. They offer savings on duties and help with trade. These benefits lead to more foreign investment and jobs in the state10911.

Opportunity Zones and Their Benefits

Opportunity Zones offer great benefits for investors and needy communities. North Carolina has 252 spots marked as OZs. This effort seeks to boost the economy by offering tax breaks and advantages for reinvesting profits.

Temporary Tax Deferral

One top benefit of Opportunity Zones is delaying taxes on profits. By investing those earnings into OZs, investors get tax breaks now and help grow poor areas12. This move is a smart choice for those wanting to make their money work better in these zones13.

Step-Up in Basis

OZs also allow investors to not count part of their earnings if they keep their investment for a while. If held for five years, 10% is discounted, and 15% for seven years12. Keep it for ten years, and all gains could be tax-free, adjusted to the current market value12. This encourages investors to stay put longer, helping the areas improve for good.

Permanent Exclusion from Taxable Income

Investments in OZs for ten years or more can be tax-free. This makes investing there very appealing for a long time13. Funds must focus 90% of their resources on qualifying places or businesses in OZs, showing a strong promise for positive change13.

In North Carolina, OZs play a big part in making the economy better. They offer big tax breaks, pulling in investors and benefiting the community. The plan is to invest big and help neglected areas thrive.

Interactive Digital Media Tax Credits

North Carolina is big on interactive media and offers tax credits to help the industry grow. These tax credits are a key part of its plan to help companies create digital projects14. They give tech startups the financial boost they need, encouraging innovation and business growth.

North Carolina also offers technology grants to digital media startups. This helps lower the risks that come with creating new digital media14. These grants are a big help for companies aiming to make new digital tools and applications.

Louisiana is another state that helps startups with tax credits for digital media14. Florida, Georgia, and Kentucky have similar programs, showing how competitive this field is14. States like Arkansas and South Carolina add incentives like job creation credits and funds for angel investors, supporting tech innovation14.

In North Carolina, the help for digital startups is comprehensive. They offer sales tax breaks on digital products. This makes it easier for new companies to grow without being slowed down by taxes15. With all these supports, North Carolina is an attractive place for tech entrepreneurs wanting to use these benefits.

Understanding North Carolina's County Tier Designations

North Carolina sorts its counties into groups called tiers for its economy plan. This method helps target resources where they're most needed. It makes sure counties that struggle economically get help to grow and provide fair chances for everyone.

Tier 1: Most Economically Distressed

Counties in Tier 1 are struggling the most with their economy. They get a lot of help from North Carolina's tax breaks to get better. They benefit from the One North Carolina Fund and Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG), important for creating jobs and improving the economy16. These counties also get strong support from the Utility Account, helping fund crucial infrastructure projects17.

Tier 2: Moderately Distressed

Tier 2 counties face some economic problems but still get a lot of support. Like Tier 1, they can get help from funds like the Industrial Development Fund and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program18. They get 90% of grants directly, with 10% going to improve infrastructure through the Utility Account17. This support helps them build up their economies.

Tier 3: Least Economically Distressed

Tier 3 counties have stronger economies but can still use help. They use NC tax breaks to boost business and keep their economies stable. The William S. Lee Quality Jobs & Business Expansion Tax Credit helps with tech and research18. They also get help from the state's Economic Development Partnership and local efforts.

For more details on these supports and how they help businesses in different counties, click on Research Triangle Region's incentive programs.

Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

The Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) are key in promoting community growth and economic revival. These grants back various initiatives that spur infrastructure enhancement, removal of blight, and modernize buildings. This greatly boosts local economies.

Demolition Program

The Demolition Program, fueled by CDBG funds, tackles urban decay by removing run-down buildings. By getting rid of these problem properties, communities see an uplift. This makes neighborhoods safer and more attractive.

Building Reuse Program

The Building Reuse Program breathes new life into old structures, turning them into vibrant business hubs. With CDBG grants, property owners can update their buildings. This not only supports business growth but also contributes to sustainable development.

Economic Development Program

The Economic Development Program leverages CDBG funds to boost job creation and growth in needy areas. It supports the building of foundations necessary for attracting businesses. In 2022, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) and its partners announced 151 projects. These are expected to bring 27,144 jobs and add $1.55 billion to annual payrolls19. Showcasing CDBG's crucial role in enhancing local economies.

The Significance of Angel Investor Tax Credits

Angel investor incentives are key to driving early-stage funding, essential for startups. They create a supportive environment for private investments. Many states in the U.S. offer tax credits to encourage funding in startups such as Connecticut and Maryland20.

From 1988 to 2018, 31 states introduced angel tax credits, engaging 123,399 investors. These incentives, averaging a 34% credit, fueled $23.8 billion in startup investments21. This financial support has been crucial for startup growth and job creation.

In North Carolina, tax credits had a clear impact. Between 1989 and 2013, $126 million in credits resulted in $741 million funding for small businesses22. This is a significant 5.9 times return on the state's investment. This shows the power of these incentives, despite their expiration in North Carolina.

The federal government also offers strong incentives for angel investors. Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code allows a 100% tax exclusion on gains from small business stock, if held for over five years20. This encourages long-term investments, helping startups and small businesses grow.

North Carolina's angel investments dropped significantly during recessions, showing the need for these credits22. A 62% drop from 2001 to 2003 and 52% from 2008 to 2010 occurred. Yet, 70% of angel group leaders believe that bringing back the tax credit would boost investment22.

“Angel investor taxation policies should align with investors' interests," says a survey of 1,411 investors. This can lead to a 31% increase in local investors21.

Reinstating angel investor tax credits could significantly help North Carolina's startups. Continued support through these credits is vital for innovation and economic growth.

Tax Credits For Startups In North Carolina

Startups in North Carolina have access to incentives that help lower costs and support new businesses. The IRS startup R&D tax credit is a big deal. It lets companies save up to $500,000 on payroll taxes if they do qualifying research and development in the U.S. This credit helps startups spend less money and is based on spending for domestic R&D. Working with skilled CPA firms is key. They make sure the calculations and paperwork are right for full benefits. The top credit was recently raised to $500,000. Check more details here1.

The North Carolina Small Business Matching Funds Program has been a big help since it started in 20061. It's helped create and keep over 1,200 jobs. More than 400 small tech companies have been able to market their ideas. A big 60% of these companies got Phase II federal grants, averaging $1 million each. This is higher than most places1.

The Job Development Investment Grant in NC is another great program8. It gives a cash refund covering up to 80% of the state income taxes from new jobs for 12 years. It's part of a big plan to attract businesses and create more jobs. The help from this program has brought in over $8 billion. It also led to projects that made over $125 million in first-year sales1.

NC also offers many tax breaks to make it easier for new businesses. For instance, Opportunity Zones in North Carolina offer great tax perks to investors. This helps develop areas that really need it9. By using these financial strategies, startups can cut costs and grow faster.

Conclusion

North Carolina is a great place for both new and established businesses. It offers many tax credits and incentives. This help is designed to boost startup growth and inspire innovation. It also helps businesses grow by reducing their financial stress.

Tools like the Angel Investor Tax Credits and the Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) show how the state supports business success. However, a study on angel investments from 1988 to 201823 found that these incentives can sometimes favor less promising startups. This highlights the need for improvement in these programs to truly support top-notch entrepreneurship.

Using these incentives wisely can greatly improve a business's operations. This contributes to North Carolina's thriving economy. The state's Business Recovery Grant Program, giving out $500 million, shows its strong commitment to helping businesses23. Companies that understand and use these incentives can achieve lasting growth and success.

FAQ

What types of tax credits are available for startups in North Carolina?

Startups in North Carolina can benefit from several tax credits. These include the JDIG, One North Carolina Fund, and New Market Tax Credit. There are also incentives for companies in the digital media space. These help reduce taxes and aid in business growth.

How do the Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) and the One North Carolina Fund help startups?

The JDIG and One North Carolina Fund assist startups by lowering costs. The JDIG provides grants for new job creation. The One North Carolina Fund gives extra financial help for business investments and job creation.

What are the local incentives that can help reduce business costs in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, local counties offer grants to help lower costs for new businesses. These incentives aim to boost regional economic growth. They also create a welcoming environment for business.

What federal tax requirements must businesses comply with in North Carolina?

Businesses in North Carolina must get an Employer Identification Number (EIN). They also need to file federal taxes. Following these rules is crucial and varies based on how the business is set up.

What is the New Market Tax Credit Program and how does it benefit businesses?

The New Market Tax Credit Program boosts investment in certain areas. It offers businesses low-interest loans in these locations. This helps economic growth in less developed places.

What benefits do Foreign Trade Zones 214 & 93 offer in North Carolina?

Foreign Trade Zones 214 & 93 let businesses avoid some duties and taxes. This is for goods that are part of international trade. It helps with manufacturing and exporting activities by delaying immediate tax costs.

What are the tax incentives associated with Opportunity Zones in North Carolina?

North Carolina's Opportunity Zones come with tax perks. They include delaying capital gains taxes, increasing tax basis over time, and even excluding certain gains from taxes completely for investments in these zones.

How do interactive digital media tax credits support tech startups in North Carolina?

Tax credits for interactive digital media encourage tech startups in North Carolina. This support helps those in quickly changing tech sectors to grow and develop.

What are the North Carolina county tier designations and how do they affect business incentives?

In North Carolina, counties are ranked based on their economic health into three tiers. This tier system decides how business incentives are given out. It sends more help to the places that need it most, ensuring fair economic growth.

What programs are supported by Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) in North Carolina?

Community Development Block Grants in North Carolina back various programs. They help with demolishing unsafe buildings, reusing spaces for business, and projects that create jobs. These efforts stimulate the local economy.

Why were angel investor tax credits significant for startups, and could they return to North Carolina?

Angel investor tax credits helped startups by drawing in private investments. Although this program has ended, the success seen in other states shows how such incentives can impact startup funding and financing.

Meet Every, bookkeeping & taxes for startups and entrepreneurs

Contact our team for tailored advice & assistance

Subscribe to get founder advice delivered straight to your inbox.