UNC-Chapel Hill’s entrepreneurial initiatives and start-ups continue to deliver substantial economic and social benefits.
The outcomes of UNC-Chapel Hill’s entrepreneurial endeavors enrich local communities throughout the state, yielding substantial economic benefits in 2022.
An annual data report by Innovate Carolina, UNC-Chapel Hill’s innovation services hub and University-wide initiative for innovation and entrepreneurship, reveals that startups and social ventures launched by the university’s faculty, students and staff are not only generating job opportunities but also fostering a thriving revenue stream within local economies.
The startups database of Innovate Carolina presents a comprehensive snapshot, encompassing a cumulative record of outcomes for both intellectual property (IP) and non-IP startups. By diligently tracking the outcomes of commercial and social ventures, a full view of startup company endeavors emerges, encompassing the University and extending well past the boundaries of North Carolina.
“Tracking startup data is not just about numbers; it’s a compass that guides us towards a future of innovation and economic success,” says Cindy Reifsnider, director of data and partnership strategy for Innovate Carolina. “By capturing the data of entrepreneurial endeavors, we gain invaluable insights that shape strategic decisions, foster collaboration, drive meaningful growth and adjust programmatic support to further accelerate their success.”
Strategic data collection on startups provides in-depth analysis into the profound impact of investments in innovation. The dashboard aims to illuminate the economic and social value derived from innovation and entrepreneurship programs, benefiting not only the University but also the state and wider region.
As of February 2023, data about UNC-affiliated ventures reveal:
Commercialization opens doors to an array of new moments of engagement with industry counterparts, spanning corporations, non-profit organizations, foundations and community entities. Such partnerships offer the University unique opportunities to advance research and development in emerging technologies.
UNC-Chapel Hill Commercialization activity in FY 2022:
The dashboard highlights the importance of UNC-Chapel Hill startups, showcasing their remarkable achievements and contributions within the business landscape. Here are just a few of the many notable startups making a big impact:
With a commitment to nurturing a thriving hub for visionary minds, Innovate Carolina creates and fosters dynamic partnerships with startups within UNC-Chapel Hill’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, increasing the reach of ideas and inventions. This commitment aligns with The Junction, a part of the Carolina Economic Development Strategy, which launches in 2023 and will function as a collaborative space, bringing together industry partners and individuals from the University, local community and surrounding region.
Learn more about Innovate Carolina’s dashboard.