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Market Research
To run a successful business it is critical to have a thorough understanding of your market. How do you find detailed information about your market? Through market research. Market research is the process of gathering, analyzing and interpreting information about a market, its existing and potential customers and competition. Whether you're starting or growing your businesses market research is essential to making informed decisions.
Some basic questions to consider are:
Resources for Market Research Data
General Sources
- NC SBTDC - How to Conduct an Industry Analysis and other helpful resources from the SBTDC.
- FedStats
Provides a full range of official statistical information produced by more than 100 agencies that provide data and trend information on such topics as economic and population trends, crime, education, health care, aviation safety, energy use, farm production and more.
- USA.gov
USA.gov for Businesses and Nonprofits: Business Data and Statistics -- Information and resources on economics, crime, occupations, trade data and much more.
- Statistical Abstract of the United States
An authoritative and comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic conditions in the United States.
- Small Business Research and Statistics
SBA Office of Advocacy provides research reports and statistical information on small businesses conditions in the United States.
- STAT-USA
For a subscription fee, you can access authoritative business, trade, and economic information from across the federal government. Produced by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
- North Carolina Resources, Facts and Figures
Information, data, and statistics related to small businesses in NC.
- Global Market Research
Are you a US exporter? This resource will assist you with a wide range of market research needs.
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Demographics - People and Population
- data.census.gov
This service of the U.S. Census Bureau provides access to a wealth of population, housing, economic, and geographic data.
- State and County Quick Facts
Provides frequently requested Census Bureau information at the national, state, county, and city level.
- Current Population Statistics
A monthly survey of about 50,000 households conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Labor Demographics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) make significant amounts of data available for specific demographic categories. Demographic categories used by BLS include sex, age, race, and ethnic origin.
- Social Security Fact Sheets for Demographic Groups
Fact sheets for all demographic groups including women and young people.
- State Population Statistics
Provides access to facts about people, business, and geography.
- North Carolina Demographics and Statistical Data
This page or reference guide is a collection of online resources the State Library has compiled to answer frequent requests for statistical or demographic information about North Carolina.
- North Carolina State Data Center
Consortium of state and local agencies. Provides links to information and assistance with using and interpreting statistical data about the state.
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Industry Information
- Hoovers
Hoover's online offers company information, detailed business reports and industry profiles and overviews.
- Biz Stats
Free business statistics, industry statistics, and financial ratios.
- Thomas Register
A comprehensive resource for finding information on suppliers of industrial products and services in North America.
- MarketResearch.com
Business market research reports and industry analysis.
- Hospitality Industry
Research hospitality industry trends and review market reports
- National Restaurant Association
Economic and statistical information about the US restaurant industry, including sales, employment, articles about trends and more.
- NC Restaurant & Lodging Association
Statistical information about the NC restaurant industry, visitor impact, guides, and helpful resources.
- PR Newswire
News and press release distribution service for small business. Great source to monitor for current news and press releases with a specific industry and market focus.
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