ATLANTA -- CNNMoney.com has ranked Durham -- population 489,762 -- the 15th best place to start a business among the top 20 mid-sized metropolitan areas nationally.
The Raleigh metro area ranked third among the top 10 large cities nationally.
The online business arm of television news network CNN wrote: "To hear local entrepreneurs tell it, Durham is putting the D in diversity. Once known for tobacco and textiles, today it's part of The Research Triangle, the world's largest research and development center. The city is home to an array of high-tech, medical and financial services companies, as well as federal agencies and educational institutions.
"The locals are a highly educated bunch: Duke University, North Carolina Central University and Durham Technical Community College employ and train area residents. Business support organizations like the Institute for Minority Economic Development and the Women's Business Center offer the resources entrepreneurs need to thrive.
"The city's strong sense of community helps its assorted enterprises and individuals come together. It's the kind of place where businesses embrace struggling local schools by donating supplies, volunteering classroom speakers and hosting field trips.
"Living, business and construction costs remain low compared to national averages. Another local perk: Durham offers plenty of ways to unwind after a hard day's work, from kayaking and hiking to performance art and gallery tours."
