North Carolina State University (NC State) provides a robust startup and venture capital ecosystem. It has a dedicated Entrepreneurship Initiative which fosters a culture of entrepreneurship by nurturing and supporting student-led startups. Among other resources, it provides access to a co-working space on campus where student startups can work and collaborate, known as the "Garage".
One of the successful startups to emerge from NC State is 'Undercover Colors', a company that has set out to reduce instances of drug-facilitated sexual assault through the development of a drug-detecting nail polish. The founders of 'Undercover Colors' developed the idea while undergraduates at NC State, and have since secured significant investment in their venture.
Another success story is that of 'Imaginovation', a full-service technology firm offering services in web design and development, mobile apps, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and more. 'Imaginovation' was co-founded by NC State alumni Pete Peranzo and Michael Georgiou. The Raleigh-based startup continues to grow and is recognized as a Top Web Design Company on DesignRush.
NC State is also home to the 'Think and Do the Extraordinary Campaign', which aims to raise $1.6 billion in private support from 125,000 donors. The campaign funds scholarships, research, programs, and facilities, including the expansion of the Entrepreneurship Initiative. Significant donors include alumni like Dr. Jim Goodnight, co-founder and CEO of SAS Institute Inc. and his wife Ann Goodnight who have also supported other initiatives within the university like the Goodnight Scholars Program.
Furthermore, the university’s strong connections with the Research Triangle Park (RTP), a large high-tech research and development center nearby, provides students with more opportunities and resources. Notably, NC State’s Centennial Campus, which fuels innovation by bringing together researchers, students, and private industry to collaborate, reflects the university’s dedication to growing the startup ecosystem.
Showing your skills in picking successful startups and advising founders is the surest way to build your reputation and secure a venture capital role.
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Explore →Earn a share in startups you scout without the funds to invest directly just like a VC partner.
Explore →As a podcaster, community manager, or event organiser you have a front-row seat to interesting startups which you can monetise by helping them fundraise.
Explore →By identifying under-represented founders you're level the playing field for anyone to success based on merit independent from their social or ethnic background.
Explore →Help your friends who are neck-deep in their startups get the funding they need to succeed.
Explore →Gain access to exclusive investing opportunities from NC State University startups and innovations. Connect with entrepreneurs and stay informed about the latest dealflow opportunities in North Carolina.
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