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.
All Carolina students working on entrepreneurial ventures are eligible to apply. This partnership between the two programs makes applying quicker and more convenient for students. Students ventures at different stages may benefit from a different combination of funding, mentorship, workspaces and educational programming – and this combined application will connect students to the resources they need when they need them most.
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
Taking your innovation to the edge and making an impact requires more than waiting on an idea to percolate in isolation. It requires coming together with a community of other innovators. Sharing your inventive thinking. And finding new insights to help push your ideas forward, faster. When you attend the Innovation Showcase hosted by Innovate Carolina, you meet the most enterprising innovators from UNC-Chapel Hill and the local entrepreneurial community.
Six Reasons to Join 1789
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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. -
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.
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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. -
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.