How do you sell and promote your work? Learn about registering your business name and using alias names in North Carolina; where to file them, where to search for the people behind them, and how to register & maintain registrations for your arts-based business.

Presented by Ann McNellis Elmore, Agency Legal Specialist with the NC Secretary of State's office, this free info session is aimed directly at artists and performers who want to learn more about naming a business in North Carolina. You'll learn general points about the topic and the session will be followed by an open Q&A where participants can ask specific questions pertaining to their business.

Is this for you?

• Does your artwork require investment in expensive supplies & equipment?

• Do you hire staff to assist you? 

• Do you want to make it clear that while your work is art, it is not a hobby but a business? 

• Do you want to achieve a level of legal separation & protection of your personal assets as you pursue your arts-based business? 

• Do you think registration of your arts-based business may be the solution, but not sure what paperwork you need to file or where?  

You need to join us for this session!

Information includes:

• Resources to help inform your selection of the appropriate business entity type

• A new online form creation & electronic submission for many of the most popular business creation/formation documents

• NC's registration process

• Ongoing obligations of registered business entities in NC

• Opportunity to register trademarks or service marks in NC

• Obligations connected with raising capital via charitable solicitation or securities including certain forms of crowdfunding

  • "DBA" registration obligations & benefits also will be covered. Additionally, arts entrepreneurs will learn of fraud risks for new businesses & tips for avoiding them.