CARRBORO, NC -- The Town of Carrboro is pleased to announce Launch Local, a new program for aspiring founders and early-stage businesses in Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
This 10-week series of in-person evening seminars will take place from early March through April 2026. The series will be facilitated by Jordan Meier, a Launch staff member and certified CO.STARTER facilitator, a nationally recognized curriculum that covers topics such as business financing, scaling, and marketing. The program cost is $100 for accepted applicants and applications are due by Feb. 18, 2026.
“From landscaping and plumbing businesses to restaurants and art studios – Launch Local is for early-stage entrepreneurs across industries," says Meier. “Applicants don’t need to have a fully-fledged proposal yet, or even a fully baked idea. This will be a structured place for them to explore ideas, learn what it takes to become an entrepreneur, and gain confidence to take their first steps toward building and growing a successful business.”
Launch Local is a collaboration among Launch Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill Economic Development, and Carrboro Economic Development. Chapel Hill and Carrboro are the primary funders, contributing $7,000 each for program costs and materials, including subsidizing participant costs. Launch Chapel Hill, a 501(c)3 is providing staff and program coordination.
“Our small, local businesses are what make our towns unique,” said Jon Hartman-Brown, Economic Development Director for Carrboro. “We wanted to create a program that makes it easier for people in Chapel Hill and Carrboro to launch and grow a thriving business.”
David Putnam, Chapel Hill’s economic development director, said he looks forward to continuing to support small, local businesses that may grow out of this program. “After completing the Launch Local program, our team is ready to support local entrepreneurs through our Business Vitality Program. We can assist with everything from navigating town permit processes to locating spaces to identifying grants opportunities.”
Learn more and apply now at launchchapelhill.com/launch-local
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