Office of Economic & Workforce Development

Welcome To The

1. Stay Connected

There Is Something New In Durham!

Durham, NC’s business community has long been a cornerstone of the city’s economic growth.

For decades, locally grown enterprises have contributed innovation, resilience, and opportunity, shaping the city’s economic landscape. From long-established companies to new ventures, these businesses—including many that are often overlooked—have strengthened Durham’s economy and continue to play a vital role in its future success.

Sign Up for Updates on Urgent Resources, Alerts, and to Stay Update on all Activities.

DLBC is Back!

Joshua Gunn, Director of OEWD

2. Ways to Get Involved

Durham Legacy Resources to Connect.  Elevate. Serve. 

The Durham Legacy Business Connect (DLBC) wants to keep these businesses connected because we are stronger together. When we share resources, questions, and solutions we all grow! 

This initiative will have in-person and online networking opportunities, webinars, prerecorded classes, and business resource sessions.

Registration is open to Durham-based businesses of various years and Durham Legacy Businesses and Entrepreneurs who have been operating in Durham, NC, for 12 years or more. Some services are segmented based on years of business in Durham. The focus of resources is to help connect, elevate, and serve the traditionally underutilized business community, women, and minorities who have stood the test of time for 12 years or more.

Networking:

Jingle and Mingle with Legacy

A night of networking, gratitude, and good cheer for Durham's small business community.

Date: Tuesday | November 18, 2025

Time: 5:30pm - 8:00pm

Location: TBD

Online Business Resource:

On-Demand 24/7 Business Resources & Classes: Immediate Access Today

Durham Legacy Business Online Business Resources & Classess

Durham Business

3. Join a Cohort Today

The Durham Legacy Business Connect (DLBC) Cohort Series is a high-impact, multi-month program designed exclusively for long-standing Durham businesses that have been the backbone of our community for 15 years or more. This closed-group experience provides the tools, guidance, and connections needed to sharpen focus, strengthen strategy, and prepare for the future.

What You Can Expect:

Each cohort session blends group collaboration with personalized support from business experts. Together, participants will engage in hands-on learning, problem-solving, and accountability to drive measurable growth.

  • Private Group Meetings with other Durham Legacy business owners

  • Small-Group & One-on-One Expert Support tailored to your needs

  • Group Coaching & Consulting designed to move your business forward

  • Hands-On Guidance in key areas such as:

  • Business Strategy & Growth Planning

  • Branding & Marketing Visibility

  • Sales & Customer Development

  • Tax, Finance & Funding Readiness

  • Technology & AI for Small Business

  • Operations & Efficiency

  • Leadership & Legacy Building

Why Join?

DLBC is more than networking. It’s a focused support system that gives you time, space, and expert insight to work on your business—not just in it. You’ll leave each session with practical strategies, a sharper focus, and stronger connections with other legacy leaders in Durham.

Structure

  • Multi-Month Series

  • Closed Group (no new members once sessions begin)

  • Mix of Group Sessions, Expert Consultations, and Collaborative Problem-Solving

4. Visit DLBC Registry

Discover Durham Legacy Businesses—our community's iconic establishments that embody the spirit and heritage of Durham. Explore, shop, and support these remarkable local businesses that have earned their place on the Durham Legacy Business Registry. Click here to learn more and see the full list of Durham Legacy Businesses!

DLBC Media & News

Managed By

For Immediate Questions, Contact [email protected] or 919-321-1302.