By Nicky Smith

As a lifelong entrepreneur and business leader, I’ve seen firsthand the vital role that small businesses play in building vibrant communities. Small businesses are the heartbeat of Greensboro—they create jobs, foster innovation, and bring character to our neighborhoods. Yet, many small business owners have faced mounting challenges in recent years, from navigating economic uncertainty to dealing with unnecessary red tape.

As a candidate for Greensboro City Council, I believe it’s time to prioritize our small business community. With over 45 years of experience leading and growing businesses, I understand the obstacles entrepreneurs face and the opportunities our city can create to help them thrive. My goal is to make Greensboro the best city in North Carolina for small businesses by fostering engagement, providing support, and driving sustainable growth.

Engaging with Our Business Community

Successful leadership starts with listening. As a City Council leader, I will create opportunities for small business owners to engage directly with city leadership, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.

How We’ll Do It:

1. Establish a Small Business Advisory Council: This council will serve as a direct line of communication between local businesses and city government, providing a platform for feedback and collaboration.
2. Regular Town Halls: I will host monthly meetings for small business owners to share ideas, discuss challenges, and learn about city initiatives.
3. Enhanced Communication Channels: We can ensure business owners stay informed and connected by improving access to information and resources through online portals and newsletters.

When small business owners feel engaged and supported, they are more likely to invest in their operations, hire locally, and contribute to Greensboro’s economic growth.

Providing Support for Small Businesses

Running a small business is never easy; today’s challenges require innovative solutions. As a City Council leader, I will focus on reducing barriers to success and providing resources that empower entrepreneurs to thrive.

Key Initiatives:

• Simplify Permitting and Licensing: Navigating the bureaucracy of starting or expanding a business shouldn’t be a full-time job. I will streamline these processes to make them faster, more transparent, and more accessible.
• Expand Access to Funding: I’ll advocate for grant programs, low-interest loans, and partnerships with local banks to give business owners the capital they need to grow.
• Support Workforce Development: By partnering with schools and technical training programs, we can ensure that small businesses have access to a skilled, ready workforce.

Small businesses are often the first to feel the pressure of economic downturns. I will focus on creating a safety net of support that allows entrepreneurs to weather challenges and emerge stronger.

Driving Growth Across Greensboro

Greensboro’s potential for economic growth is enormous, but to unlock it, we need a strategic focus on small business development. By prioritizing growth in every corner of the city, we can ensure that all neighborhoods benefit from our efforts.

Growth Strategies:

1. Invest in Underserved Areas: We can encourage small business development in historically overlooked neighborhoods by targeting resources to areas with untapped potential.
2. Foster Collaboration: Creating shared workspaces and business hubs will encourage innovation and collaboration among entrepreneurs.
3. Promote Local Businesses: We can encourage residents to shop small and support Greensboro’s businesses through city-led marketing campaigns and partnerships with local organizations.

By focusing on growth that benefits everyone, we can build a stronger, more inclusive economy that supports both entrepreneurs and the communities they serve.

Why My Experience Matters

For over four decades, I’ve led businesses that have grown and created opportunities for others. As the owner of Carolina Digital Phone, I’ve built a company that prioritizes customer satisfaction, innovation, and community impact. I know what it takes to overcome challenges, manage budgets, and create lasting success—and I want to bring that expertise to Greensboro’s City Council.

I’ve spent my career listening to employees, customers, and stakeholders, making decisions that drive results while building trust. This experience has prepared me to lead Greensboro toward a future where small businesses thrive, and our community prospers.

A Vision for Greensboro’s Future

My vision for Greensboro is simple: a city where small businesses are supported and celebrated. A city where entrepreneurs feel empowered to take risks, innovate, and grow. A city that attracts new businesses while nurturing the ones already here.

As your City Council leader, I will advocate policies that prioritize small business development, foster community engagement, and ensure that Greensboro remains a place where families, businesses, and neighborhoods can prosper together.

This isn’t just about economics; it’s about building a community that works for everyone. Small businesses are more than economic engines—they’re places where neighbors meet, dreams are realized, and communities are strengthened. Together, we can make Greensboro a city that truly supports its small businesses and the people behind them.

Let’s build a future where Greensboro is known as the best city in North Carolina for small business success. I’m ready to lead—are you ready to join me?