Learn more and register for upcoming events and resources at the 79ºWest Innovation Hub in MOSAIC located just south of Chapel Hill in Chatham County. Events are planned and hosted by the Innovate Carolina team and created to provide entrepreneurial support, advice and networking opportunities. Register today to reserve your spot.
Demystifying GenAI: The Future of Law and Technology
Nov. 21 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Discover how Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the practice of law downstream effects it may have on you and your business in this engaging and informative workshop. We’ll provide an accessible overview of GenAI and its current applications within the legal field. Through live demonstrations, attendees will experience firsthand the capabilities and limitations of the latest GenAI tools.
Lunch and Learn: Become an Investor-Ready Entrepreneur with SBTDC
Dec. 4 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join us as we hear from Kevin Nicusanti, Equity Funding Specialist with the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC). Nicusanti’s workshop will focus on de-mystifying the process of becoming investor ready, understanding different types of investors and how to prepare to pitch to investors. He will also discuss the current funding landscape in North Carolina, investment trends in early and seed rounds (and what to expect during the process of fund raising as a first-time entrepreneur), how to determine the amount of funding required for each stage and how to present that to potential investors.
Lunch and Learn: Scale Your Business and Elevate Your Brand
Dec. 12 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Do you want to grow your business, reach new customers and create innovative solutions? If so, this workshop is for you. Join Innovate Carolina and an expert in scaling: SCORE Mentor Morris Wallack.
In this workshop, you’ll discover how to use design thinking tools to understand your customers’ needs, identify opportunities and solve problems. You will also learn how to scale your business effectively by applying proven strategies and techniques that have helped many successful businesses achieve sustainable growth.
Fireside Chat: NCInnovation
Nov. 6 | 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
In this engaging discussion, Michelle will share how NCInnovation is tackling the critical challenge of bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready solutions, driving economic growth, and creating high-quality jobs across the state. She will provide an inside look at the strategies and initiatives NCInnovation is implementing to unlock the full potential of North Carolina’s academic and research institutions, fostering a dynamic innovation ecosystem.
Equity-Free Funding
Sept. 19 | 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Funding an innovation-based small business can be challenging…
Learn how to take advantage of federal funding through the SBIR and STTR programs with a detailed introduction from the SBTDC’s Connor Steenbock. This presentation offers an opportunity to learn and ask questions about:
▪️ Funding levels and the 2-Phase process of SBIR/STTR
▪️ Participating federal agencies
▪️ How to identify agency interests via their solicitations
▪️ Differences between SBIR and STTR
▪️ Important content to include in a proposal
▪️ Key points to increase competitiveness
▪️ Resources available to assist you
What Generative AI Can Do For You
Sept. 10 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join us at 79 Degrees West Innovation Hub and Coworking Space for an enlightening session on the transformative potential of Generative AI, led by UNC Professor of the Practice Richard Marks. With a distinguished career that spans pioneering roles at Google ATAP and PlayStation R&D, Rick has been at the forefront of technological innovation, contributing to groundbreaking projects like the EyeToy, PlayStation Move and PlayStation VR.
Business Plan Basics
Aug. 23 | 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Learn or review the basics of a business plan with Sheila Dalton from the Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) during a free workshop hosted by Innovate Carolina at 79°West, a coworking space and innovation hub. Join SBTDC and UNC-Chapel Hill’s Innovate Carolina for this casual breakfast session to meet SBTDC counselors, learn the basics of a business plan and get your specific questions answered.
Founders Forum: Robbie Allen, Bionic Health
Thursday, May 9 l 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. EDT
Next in our Founders Forum series is an interview with Robbie Allen, co-founder and CEO of Bionic Health: a preventive care company that optimizes your health span through personalized medicine delivered by expert physicians. He is also a General Partner at the Tweener Fund, an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in Triangle technology startups.
Allen will engage with moderator James Kotecki (host of the CES Tech Talk podcast) to discuss the company’s vision for enhancing the quality and duration of life, and the unique challenges of pioneering AI applications in the medical field.
Supporting the Entrepreneurial Journey: Generative AI for Business
Wednesday, March 27 | 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
The entrepreneurial journey can be both exciting and frustrating, and Innovate Carolina is partnering with experts to support you along the way. Join us as we hear from author and professor Mark McNeilly. McNeilly teaches marketing and organizational behavior in the MBA and Undergraduate Business programs at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler school. He also serves as the co-chair of the UNC Generative AI Committee and is a faculty advisor for the STAR program.
Founders Forum: Adam Isley, Artemis Immersive
Thursday, March 14 | 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Next in our Founders Forum series is an interview with Adam Isley of Artemis Immersive. Adam and his team will introduce their NC-based startup that promises to revolutionize patient care, with their rapidly growing spatial MedTech toolkit. The existing healthcare model is crushing physicians and their supporting staff, and this platform of applications focuses on providing tools that make it easier for physicians to provide their best care.
Meet Your Neighbors with Ashley Evans, Wolfspeed
Thursday, Feb. 8 | 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
What’s next? We believe anything is possible through hard work, collaboration and a passion for innovation. Come join us at 79º West on Feb. 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. to meet the team that is hiring for the world’s largest Silicon Carbide Materials factory. Wolfspeed is leading the transformation from silicon-to-silicon carbide (SiC) as we shape the future of semiconductor markets: the transition to electric vehicles, the evolution of renewable energy and energy storage and the advancement of industrial applications.
Supporting the Entrepreneurial Journey: How to Land a Federal Contract
Wednesday, Jan. 24 | 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
This workshop is an introduction to doing business with the federal government. Topics include levels of federal purchasing; how the federal government buys products, construction and engineering and non-personal services; marketing a business to the federal government; socio-economic small business programs; registering as a federal contractor; locating, identifying and responding to federal business opportunities; and resources available to assist federal contractors in North Carolina.
Founders Forum: Highs, Lows and Lessons Learned with Igor Jablokov, Pryon
Thursday, Jan. 11 | 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Embrace the imperfect entrepreneurial journey as we delve into tales of triumphs and missteps, where startup leaders not only share their victories but openly discuss their pitfalls. This first forum will feature Igor Jablokov, CEO and founder of Pryon. Named an “Industry Luminary” by Speech Technology Magazine, he previously founded industry pioneer Yap, the world’s first high-accuracy, fully-automated cloud platform for voice recognition. Moderated by Steven King, Igor will share his experience leading the development of these cutting-edge products and how he’s handled successes and setbacks while launching, growing and exiting companies.
>> Register on Eventbrite now.
How to Scale Your Business and Elevate Your Brand
Do you want to grow your business and reach new customers, while creating innovative solutions? Whether you’re a startup founder, a small business owner or an entrepreneur looking to expand, you won’t want to miss an upcoming working featuring two Carolina experts in scaling and design thinking: SCORE Mentor Morris Wallack and Innovate Carolina’s Liz Chen. In this workshop, discover how to use design thinking tools to understand your customers’ needs, identify opportunities and solve problems and also learn how to scale your business effectively by applying proven strategies and techniques. You’ll get hands-on practice and feedback from our experienced facilitators, as well as a practical toolkit that you can use right away.
Thursday, Dec. 7 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. >>Register now on Eventbrite.
From Idea to Execution: Navigating Legal Aspects for Your Innovations
The creation of a new business can involve a wide range of potential business law issues. Join Innovate Carolina and Marjorie White, Clinical Professor of Law at UNC School of Law and Director of the Startup NC Law Clinic, for an informative workshop where we explore the importance of legal considerations in turning your ideas into reality and in structuring and protecting a new business. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business, or simply someone with a great idea, understanding the legal landscape can be crucial for successfully implementing your business plan.
Friday, Nov. 17 | 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. >>Register now on Eventbrite.
Fireside Chat with Lee-Moore Capital Company President Kirk Bradley
Sit down for a chat with Kirk Bradley, the Chairman, President, and CEO of the company at 79°West, to hear about his vision, values and genuine passion for helping the Research Triangle community. As an established, regional real estate firm, Lee-Moore Capital invests in the communities they develop. They work within diverse sectors—from retail, residential and office to multifamily, self-storage and flex space to develop the Research Triangle Region of North Carolina.
Thursday Oct 26 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Human Centered Design Customer Discovery
If you’re looking to improve your business, human-centered design is a must-have skill. Join Innovate Carolina and the Small Business and Technology Development Center for breakfast and an interactive session in which you will learn how to design products and services that your customers love using human-centered design.
Friday Oct 20 | 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Venture Capital 101
Join Innovate Carolina and the Carolina Angel Network for Venture Capital 101: an overview of early stage investing. The course covers the basics of Venture Capital (VC), including how VC works, the players involved and the role of early-stage investment in the startup ecosystem. The course will touch on critical concepts like due diligence, market sizing and valuation.
Wednesday Oct 4 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Small Business Resource Fair
This annual event hosted by Innovate Carolina is designed to provide valuable resources, expert guidance and networking opportunities to help you thrive in the competitive business landscape. The Small Business Resource Fair brings together a diverse range of professionals, industry experts and service providers dedicated to assisting small businesses. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your venture, this fair offers a wealth of knowledge and practical tools tailored to meet your specific needs.
Thursday Sept 28 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
How to Fund Your Business
Join Innovate Carolina in partnership with Webb Squared for an engaging and insightful panel discussion on “How to Fund Your Business.” Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a business owner looking to scale, understanding the various funding options and strategies is crucial for success. During this workshop, our funding for businesses expert panelists will share valuable insights, tips and best practices on navigating the complex landscape of funding.
Wednesday, Sept 13 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Fireside Chat with Shibumi Shade Co-founder Dane Barnes
Dane Barnes is a co-founder of Shibumi, a trailblazing lifestyle brand on a mission to raise the bar
on beach time, with innovative, thoughtfully designed products that are all about ease and
respecting our sandy escape. Join Innovate Carolina and Aimée Brosnan at 79 Degrees West for an intimate discussion with Dane Barnes about his entrepreneurial journey and successful business.
Thursday, Aug 24 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Reading and Understanding Your Business Financial Statements
Finance is the language of business, and all business owners should know how to read and interpret a balance sheet and a profit & loss statement. Join Innovate Carolina and SBTDC Interim Director Joel Harper at 79 Degrees West for Coffee and Concepts centered around bookkeeping. This free session is open to established businesses, startups, entrepreneurs, young professionals and community members.
Friday, Aug 18 | 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Unlocking Value through Understanding Your Customer
Learn to engage the full range of customer mentalities, from casual browsers to your most loyal fans. Join Innovate Carolina and Joseph Collins at 79 Degrees West for an interactive journey, crafted specifically for small business owners and first-time entrepreneurs. Dive into group discussions and hands-on activities, gaining practical insights into how to effectively identify and engage each mentality. You’ll learn to tailor your approach and guide potential customers towards a deeper connection with your brand. You’ll be ready to engage your entire market more effectively.
Wednesday, Aug 2 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
DHIT Happy Hour
Looking to connect with industry experts? Join the Digital Health Institute for Transformation for our monthly Digital Health Happy Hour event on July 27, 2023 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. EST! Our event this month is sponsored by Innovate Carolina, UNC’s university-wide initiative for innovation and entrepreneurship.
This event is a great opportunity to meet folks interested in the future of healthcare and innovation in North Carolina and the world.
Thursday, July 27 | 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Supercharge Your Brand with the Power of Digital Content
Equip your business with the tools & strategy it needs to dominate your industry. Join Innovate Carolina and Ahmod Goins for a free Coffee & Concepts workshop at the brand-new innovation hub and coworking space, 79 Degrees West, in Pittsboro and learn how to stand out from your competition, attract new customers and grow your business.
In our session together we will take a deep dive into content ideation, creation and strategy. If you have been struggling to produce effective content and adapt to digital marketing, this workshop will provide the skills you need. This workshop is open to established businesses, startups, entrepreneurs, young professionals and local community members.
Friday, July 21 | 9:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Intro to Business Model Canvas as a Business Planning Tool
Discover the transformative differences between traditional business planning and innovative strategies. Join Innovate Carolina and SCORE for breakfast in the brand new 79 Degrees West co-working and manufacturing space. Get an introduction to the concept of the business model canvas and its use as a planning tool in this session with SCORE mentor Morris Wallack. Learn about templates and tools to further your work, see examples of completed versions and receive suggestions on how to take the first step with your mentors.
Friday June 23 | 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Building a Strategic Rhythm for Your Business
Strategy helps your organization steer toward your vision. It’s less about a beautifully laid out strategic plan, and more about the way you organize your company day-to-day. In this two-hour workshop with Leadership Triangle, we’ll explore ways to ensure that you have time to work on your business. You’ll leave with a personalized workflow and operating norms that work best for what you need now.
Friday June 2 | 12 p.m. Register now on Eventbrite.
Equitable Hiring Practices
The last two years have brought sweeping changes to recruitment, hiring and culture building. In this two-hour free workshop with Leadership Triangle, we’ll cover strategies and tactics to operationalize equity into your hiring and onboarding process. You will walk away with tangible practices to implement immediately.
Friday, May 5 | 12:00 p.m. Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/491885331267
Working with Tension
Conflict and tension can be generative. In fact, the best-performing leaders and organizations embrace them. Don’t believe us? In this two-hour workshop with Leadership Triangle, we’ll explore how tension arises out of value systems and preferences, and how a diversity of thought and experiences can enrich our personal and organizational lives.
Wednesday, April 26 | 4:00 p.m. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/539213661577
Virtual Office Hours: Competitive Landscape and Using Data for Business Decisions
Sign up for a free, virtual 30-minute consulting session with Cindy Reifsnider, Innovate Carolina’s director of data and strategic partnerships. Cindy can help you: Research the competitive landscape: who are your competitors and competing products and services? Analyze the competitive landscape: how can you differentiate your business and position your products and services for sale? And think through what data do you collect – or should you collect – about your business, sales, and customers to help with sales and funding opportunities?
Monday, April 24 | 2:00-5:00 p.m. Register: https://calendly.com/reifc/innovate-carolina-consulting
Webinar: I Have an Idea, Do I Need a Lawyer?
Have an idea but not sure if you need a Lawyer? Join Bryan McGann and the Duke Law Clinic hosted in partnership with Innovate Carolina and Central Carolina Community for a virtual workshop on the important legal advice you need to move forward. This presentation is for early-stage startups or entrepreneurs all around the triangle. Zoom webinar link will be sent to all registered attendees via email before the event.
Friday, April 14 | 12:00-2:00 p.m. | Zoom Webinar. Register: https://www.ncsbc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110430055
Free Workshop on Market Research for Your Business
Do you know what your customers really want? Do you understand your competitors? Understanding the market includes both your customers and competitors—and it’s essential for starting a successful business.
Friday, March 3 | noon. Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/532498044987
Branding Your Company Workshop
How to Identify Your Message and Share It With the World: Join Sanford resident and G1 Production founder Ahmod Goins and Innovate Carolina’s communications team for a free workshop on branding yourself, your idea or your business.
February 2, 2023 | 5:00 p.m. Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/481689896447
Business Plan Basics for any startup stage or enterprise With SBTDC
Free Session With Experienced Business Advisors: Learn or Review the basics of a business plan with Joel Harper, Business Counselor wit the Small Business Technology Development Association.
January 27, 2023 | 9:30 a.m. Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/491769163807
Fireside Chat With Serial Entrepreneur Jim Kitchen
Wednesday, January 18, 2023 | 4:00 p.m.
Jim Kitchen teaches how to start for-profit, non-profit, and social entrepreneurial ventures and raise funding.Learn More: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/481654279917
| UNC-CH
