SmartUp
Impact & Purpose
SmartUp aims to transform communities by supporting businesses committed to local hiring. SmartUp selects a cohort of up to 10 growing companies in 3 high potential communities, including the Elizabeth City and North Charleston Regions. In addition to providing consulting services for 2 years, SmartUp hosts networking events and workshops in coordination with local government and other resource providers to further strengthen the entire business community.
Our goals are to connect entrepreneurs to resources, strengthen existing entrepreneurial ecosystems, and fundamentally change how individuals and struggling communities perceive themselves. This program is built on the existing framework of the Kenan Institute’s flagship economic development program, NCGrowth.
Supported by the SunTrust Foundation, in partnership with the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise.
