Are you interested in innovation or have an idea? The first step is joining our community. From there, we will get you plugged into to resources across campus. 1789 is a student co-working space in downtown Chapel Hill – just 23 steps above Franklin Street. It’s where you can explore innovative ideas, work on entrepreneurial projects and even begin to build a startup.
Visit Ask an Innovator, a simple, yet powerful online platform that’s powered by Innovate Carolina and created in partnership with The Entrepreneurship Center at Kenan-Flagler Business School. This digital tool makes it easy for you to send your questions to our community of innovators who are ready to assist. It’s free and available for you to use at your convenience
The Innovate Carolina Dreamers-Who-Do Award is meant to expand the minds and real-world experiences of our student entrepreneurs. With the plethora of opportunities students are exposed to through the award, they are creating waves of positive change within their communities. Positive change: the movement that inspires you and your neighbor to do great, feel great and be great.
Six Reasons to Join 1789
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Convenient Location
Located right on Franklin Street, 1789 is super easy to get to – just a few steps from campus. It’s right above Ye Olde Waffle Shop – and down the street from all your downtown favorites. Plus, you can use the space at a time that is conveinant for you. Stop by and put your ideas to work whenever you want. -
Free Workspace
Enjoy a variety of 40 co-working spaces designed spark inventive thinking: huddle areas, brainstorming nooks, booth seating, conference rooms and even a bar counter. From oversized bean bag chairs to whiteboards to a ping-pong table, you’ll find plenty of tools to help you clear the mind, focus and let your ideas flow. Be sure to check out the old-school Pac-Man game! -
Interactive Events
Connect with other students and industry leaders at events that let you learn, discuss and share. Workshops combine practical skill building, professional self-discovery and inspiration. Lunch-and-learn sessions offer regular sit downs with startup pros. And networking events provide chances to unwind, have fun and get to know other students and community members.
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Expert Advice
Is there a market for my idea? Who are my customers and competitors? How can I make an impact? How do I start raising money? Can I get software help? What about legal advice? 1789 members can schedule complimentary office hours with local entrepreneurs, business leaders and innovation experts to get wellinformed answers to big questions. -
Jobs and Internships
Plug in to an expanding list of job and internship postings on the 1789 website. From internships during the school year and summer to longer term job possibilities, you’ll find great opportunities for starting out at a startup. -
Community and Clubs
Whether you’re attending a pre-scheduled event or just swinging by on a whim, you’ll find that 1789 is a place to meet others that can help make your ideas better. On any day or evening, you’ll run into a variety of teams, classes or clubs that call 1789 home. Reserve rooms or event space for your I&E group.