Entrepreneurs & Startups

Jumpstart your career in the heart of North Carolina’s entrepreneurship scene. Wilmington’s growing startup industry features fintech  businesses like nCino, which has grown from five to over 1,000 employees in a decade, and Live Oak Bank, which has been recognized twice on Inc. 500’s list of America’s Fastest Growing Companies — in fact, Live Oak Bank plans to add more than 200 jobs in the next 12 years.

In addition to generating exciting career opportunities, Wilmington area startups offer competitive employee benefits. In fact, Apiture, a digital banking startup, has been named one of the best fintech/startup  employers by both American Bankers and Forbes for their unlimited PTO, compensation and culture.

Wilmington, NC’s educational institutions provide excellent opportunities to learn how to think like an entrepreneur. Cape Fear Community College offers a range of programs and certifications for startup success, such as a certificate in entrepreneurship and a curriculum in business administration. And UNCW’s Cameron School of Business can help you build a solid foundation in the principles of business ownership through coursework in business management and administration and an executive network to help you forge industry connections. Meanwhile, the university’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) offers several opportunities to learn what it’s like to work with founders on everything from app development to marketing.

Wilmington, NC provides a vibrant and growing ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs, with ample networking and funding opportunities to support their ventures. The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce serves as a valuable resource, offering networking events and business development programs tailored to startups. The local chapter of the Small Business Administration provides guidance and assistance in accessing funding options, such as loans and grants. And Wilmington also hosts regular pitch competitions, incubators  and accelerator programs that connect entrepreneurs with investors, mentors and industry experts. Notable resources include the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), The Coalition, Network for Entrepreneurs and Genesis Block.  This city’s strong entrepreneurial spirit makes it an ideal place for startups and aspiring business owners to find the networking and funding support they need to succeed.