SmartUp aims to transform communities by supporting businesses committed to local hiring.
SmartUp selects a cohort of up to 10 growing companies in 3 high potential communities, including the Elizabeth City and North Charleston Regions. In addition to providing consulting services for 2 years, SmartUp hosts networking events and workshops in coordination with local government and other resource providers to further strengthen the entire business community.
The goals are to connect entrepreneurs to resources, strengthen existing entrepreneurial ecosystems, and fundamentally change how individuals and struggling communities perceive themselves. This program is built on the existing framework of the Kenan Institute’s flagship economic development program, NCGrowth.
SmartUp is supported by the SunTrust Foundation, in partnership with the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise.
About NC Growth and SmartUp
NCGrowth & SmartUp are initiatives that help businesses and communities create good jobs and equitable opportunities through applied research and technical assistance. In partnership with other universities and community organizations, we provide technical assistance to businesses and governments on economic development and entrepreneurship projects. Since 2012 we have helped to create over 400 jobs and worked with more than 70 clients. To learn more, please visit our website. NCGrowth.unc.edu
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