UNCP’s Thomas Entrepreneurship HUB Launches GrowthWorks Program for Entrepreneurs
UNC Pembroke’s Thomas Entrepreneurship HUB is accepting registrations for GrowthWorks, a 12-week hybrid entrepreneurship program designed to help aspiring and early-stage business owners develop the knowledge and skills needed to launch and grow successful businesses.
The program combines the nationally recognized Kauffman FastTrac® online entrepreneurship curriculum with self-paced online learning, workshops, one-on-one business coaching and networking opportunities through the HUB’s Founders’ Circle.
The program begins September 8. Participants who register by August. 20 will receive the early registration rate of $99. After August 20, registration is $149. The program is free for UNCP students with a valid Banner ID. Participants can register online.
“GrowthWorks is designed for anyone with a business idea or existing business who wants to gain the tools and confidence needed to succeed,” said Beth Wilkerson, executive director of the Thomas Entrepreneurship HUB. “Whether someone is just beginning to explore entrepreneurship or looking to strengthen an existing business, this program provides practical guidance every step of the way.”
GrowthWorks is open to participants regardless of where they live. While much of the coursework is completed online, participants may also attend in-person sessions at the Thomas Entrepreneurship HUB, 202 Main Street, in Pembroke.
Kauffman FastTrac® is an entrepreneurship curriculum that equips aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs with practical skills to launch, manage and grow successful businesses. Participants complete approximately 30 to 40 hours of coursework over 12 weeks, averaging three hours per week.
Throughout the program, participants explore topics including entrepreneurial mindset, business planning, marketing research, identifying target customers, pricing strategies, financial planning, legal considerations, intellectual property, team building and developing a business plan.
“The curriculum provides an excellent foundation, but what makes GrowthWorks unique is the personalized support participants receive throughout the program,” Wilkerson said. "In addition to the online modules, participants have access to one-on-one business counseling and guest speakers from the entrepreneurial community and UNCP Thomas College of Business and Economics .”
Entrepreneurs, business professionals, and faculty lead workshops and provide feedback as participants complete assignments designed to help refine business ideas and develop strategies for long-term success.
The program’s flexible format makes it especially appealing to working professionals and students.
“The self-paced structure allows participants to learn on their own schedule while still benefiting from synchronous live workshops, coaching and networking opportunities,” she said.
Wilkerson said providing affordable entrepreneurial resources is especially important in southeastern North Carolina, where many small businesses face limited access to the targeted professional business support.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” Wilkerson said. “Our goal is to help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses, create jobs and strengthen communities throughout our region.”