/ High Growth Entrepreneurship

The ability to develop and execute an idea into a scalable, commercially-viable venture is the hallmark of an entrepreneur, and Charlotte has just the right ecosystem to support this vital role. The resources below provide technical expertise, counseling and capital to support Charlotte’s high-growth entrepreneurial culture.

Click one of the topics below to find local resources to help your high-growth venture.

Regional Efforts:

Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE)
The CRFE is a charitable fund aimed at strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, supporting increased innovation, improving development of high-growth entrepreneurs, and ultimately increasing job creation.

Report: A Map of Charlotte’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
An in-depth look at the Charlotte region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the programs that impact high growth entrepreneurs.

Report: High Growth Entrepreneurship Strategy
Charlotte’s City Council adopted a strategy in November 2012 outlining ways the City might support the Charlotte region’s high growth ecosystem.

Counseling and Training

A great technology will go only so far without proper customer discovery. Get coaching on the process with City Startup Labs!

Business Advisory and Incubation

It’s time to take your business to the next level. If you’re a woman-owned business and are trying to reach a larger market, join NAWBO Charlotte for access to learning and networking opportunities, monthly meetings and workshops. Get more information and join here!

NSF I-Corps Site Program – Do you have a big product idea, but not sure how to get a prototype? Check in with the National Science Foundation (NSF) I-Corps Site program at UNC Charlotte, which is operated by Venturprise. This program guides researchers through customer discovery and business model creation to bring promising inventions to the market. This is a selective program open is to UNC Charlotte and area college/university faculty, student researchers and select researchers. Learn more about this program, and if it is right for you.

49er Foundry Student Business Incubator – Calling all UNC studentprenuers! The 49er Foundry Student Business Incubator supports new ventures launch by eligible UNC Charlotte students through coaching, connections, and co-working space in the University’s PORTAL building. If you’re UNC Charlotte student and are interested in applying, click here!

Ventureprise Launch Program – Have a technology concept that you think could make it through the commercialization process? The Ventureprise Launch program is designed to assess opportunities and help innovators through commercialization. A bootcamp for innovators, this program will challenge participants at every turn. Find out if you’re eligible and request an application!

Are you an investor-ready entrepreneur? The SBTDC’s “Becoming an Investor Ready Entrepreneur Program” is designed to educate and prepare growth-oriented entrepreneurs to successfully engage with private equity investors. This program was developed with direct input from experienced entrepreneurs, angel investors, angel networks/fund executives and venture capitalists; it provides an insider’s look into the world of equity funding.Learn more here!

Geek is chic! In addition to showcasing many of Central Piedmont’s small business resources, the Geek Festival (TGF) is an exciting and eclectic annual celebration of the “geek” in all of us. This event is designed to educate the hearts and minds of our community by highlighting and celebrating the creative and exciting innovations of new technology, media, and industries. Learn more here.