7 Entrepreneurial Resources That Boost New Businesses in Winston-Salem

Courtesy of Center for Creative Economy

As the birthplace of iconic brands like R.J. Reynolds and HanesBrands, Greater Winston-Salem has a long history as a business development hotbed. Now, a new generation of business boosters has built a thriving startup and professional culture around the region’s Innovation Quarter, a mixed-use hub of innovation, creativity and economic activity that’s also rich in entrepreneurial resources. 

“We are nurturing these collaborations for the betterment of the city, so Winston-Salem will be known as one of the premier places to bring your ideas to life,” says Mike Buckovich, founder and president of Vision to Venture. 

The nonprofit specializes in connecting entrepreneurs to the right resources and programs to fit their needs, which can vary tremendously depending on the nature of the business. 

Courtesy of Vision to Venture

At Winston Starts, for example, early-stage companies can get a potent blend of physical space and deep mentorship from experienced owners. 

“We have over 100 folks who volunteer to help our founders,” says Stan Parker, president of Winston Starts. “We match the founder up to the mentor who has what they need at that time.” 

Sparq, a coworking space with 150 members, is an inclusive work environment for anyone, from a remote worker who needs to get out of their home office  to a small marketing team.

Sparq has launched Sparq Labs, offering affordable and flexible biotech lab spaces, and it recently hosted its first TechStars, a weekend event for aspiring entrepreneurs. 

“Like the Innovation Quarter, Sparq is always growing and evolving,” says Jessica Aveyard, Sparq membership and operations manager. 

Read ahead for a snapshot of the variety of resources available for business owners and other professionals in the Greater Winston-Salem region. 

Winston Under 40 

Greater Winston-Salem Inc.’s Winston Under 40 program promotes talent recruitment and development by offering a broad range of opportunities for young professionals. Focusing on three core goals of leadership development, community involvement and networking opportunities, the program helps build the next generation of leaders and creates a collective network of young professionals. 

Triad Minority & Women’s Business Expo 

The Triad Minority & Women’s Business Expo facilitates sharing knowledge and building professional relationships throughout the Triad minority business community. The organization’s events provide a forum for people to meet and exchange ideas and maximize opportunities for developing contacts, generating new business leads and increasing revenue. 

Women’s Business Center 

The Winston-Salem Women’s Business Center provides expert guidance, practical tools and access to capital to help business owners avoid costly mistakes and build profitable, sustainable businesses. The center champions women while welcoming all, ensuring entrepreneurs gain the skills, confidence and resources needed to grow, thrive and contribute to economic success. 

Courtesy of Center for Creative Economy

Center for Creative Economy 

To expand the capacity of creatives and artists to emerge as viable entrepreneurs, the Center for Creative Economy provides programs for inception and early-stage business training. Inclusive, customized education and mentorship programs fulfill the mission to launch and grow a range of creative entrepreneurs and business owners. 

Courtesy of Winston Starts

Winston Starts 

Winston Starts helps entrepreneurs successfully scale their businesses, providing a development framework, valuable resources and the long runway entrepreneurs need to grow their businesses and realize their dreams. With 34 companies in residence, more than 90 experienced mentors, $31 million in revenue generated in the past year and a Shark Tank winner as part of the roster, Winston Starts has the programming and resources to help business owners get to the next level on their business journey. 

Courtesy of Sparq

Sparq 

Sparq connects innovators and entrepreneurs to the unique resources of the Innovation Quarter. Sparq features dynamic work and event space, providing members with coworking resources, conference rooms and networking opportunities. In addition to access to Innovation Quarter resources and anchor institutions, including Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Sparq offers office hours with attorneys, accountants and marketing professionals. 

Vision to Venture 

Vision to Venture elevates entrepreneurs and energizes ecosystems through three core pillars: impactful events, tailored curriculum support and vibrant community engagement. By hosting transformative gatherings, offering comprehensive learning opportunities and fostering meaningful connections within the ecosystem, Vision to Venture empowers startups to thrive and drive innovation forward.