The Innovate Carolina Junction is proudly celebrating its one-year anniversary as a hub for innovation in downtown Chapel Hill. Over the past year, the Junction has hosted over 100 events and facilitated more than 300 community tours, creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and creativity. As the hub looks ahead, plans are already in motion for more dynamic programming, workshops, and collaborations that will continue to strengthen Chapel Hill’s growing community of changemakers. Interested in seeing what all the Junction has to offer? Then stop by on October 4 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for free coworking hours, tours, games, swag and more! Reserve your spot here.
Visit the Innovate Carolina Junction: 136 E Rosemary Street Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Contact: innovate@innovate.unc.edu
Innovate Carolina Junction is celebrating a major milestone—its one-year anniversary. In just twelve months, the Junction has evolved from a new coworking space in downtown Chapel Hill into a thriving hub for collaboration and innovation, bringing together entrepreneurs, students, and industry leaders.
“We're thrilled to mark the first anniversary of the Innovate Carolina Junction and its ever-growing community,” says Dedric A. Carter, PhD, MBA, Vice Chancellor for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Economic Development, and UNC Chief Innovation Officer. “As a vibrant hub for fostering partnerships, driving innovation-based economic development, creating new ventures, and accelerating impact, we’re excited to continue building an intentional culture of innovation and nurturing a thriving innovation ecosystem at UNC and beyond.”
At first glance, Innovate Carolina Junction might seem like just another coworking space, but if you step inside, you will quickly realize it is much more. With over 100 company partnerships and 270 active coworking members, this hub has become a key space for connecting entrepreneurs, creatives, and changemakers with students and the university. The Junction is a space designed for more than just productivity–it is built for possibility.
“What sets us apart is the connection to the university and our desire to facilitate collaboration between campus, companies and the community,” says Sheryl Waddell, Director of Innovation Hubs and Engagement.
As the Junction looks to the future, it continues to set ambitious goals. Plans for the upcoming year include a variety of workshops, networking events and collaborations with UNC departments and external organizations. The Junction aims to reach an 80% occupancy rate, becoming a self-sustaining entity within the next two years.
Free events like lunch-and-learn sessions, workshops and networking programs have fostered strong connections within the community. The Signature Innovation Summit hosted by the Junction brought together 47 academic, industry and government partners from 22 states and welcomed 50 senior leaders from innovation hubs across the country to Chapel Hill to investigate how innovation hubs catalyze the Future of Work.
Whether you are looking for a place to call “the office,” or to connect with small start-ups right here at home, the Innovate Carolina Junction has something for you.
For community entrepreneurs, the Junction offers office hours with experts in fields ranging from law to AI. These sessions provide invaluable insights for startups navigating the complexities of launching and scaling a business.
"Whether it's free consultations with a lawyer, branding advice from marketing professionals, or brainstorming how to integrate AI into your work, we strive to be a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs and solo workers alike," said Waddell.
The Junction team is also dedicated to bridging the gap between students and the entrepreneurial community. The 1789 Hub, a student-focused initiative within the Junction, provides tailored programming, mentorship and resources for undergraduates interested in innovation and entrepreneurship.
"Our goal is to connect students with real-world opportunities and experiences," explains Anise Robinson, the Student Engagement and Events Program Manager.
Whether you are a solo entrepreneur seeking a community, a student eager to learn or a business leader looking to collaborate, the Junction welcomes you. With its vibrant community, diverse programming and strong ties to the university, Innovate Carolina Junction stands as a testament to what is possible when a coworking space becomes a true hub for innovation.
With its first successful year behind it and ambitious goals ahead, Innovate Carolina Junction is poised to continue being a transformative force in Chapel Hill and beyond.
