As the importance of innovation grows for competing in the global economy, entrepreneurial activity becomes more vital to economic development. The Piedmont Triad Partnership recognizes this fact, and works to strengthen the region's capacity to create new high-skill, high-wage jobs by focusing on support for small businesses and innovation. The PTP works to support regional entrepreneurship in two ways:

• Support regional entrepreneurship resources in creating a culture that is supportive of entrepreneurs – both rural and urban.
• Identify and work to address specific gaps in the entrepreneurial support system across the region.

The North Carolina Entrepreneurship Summit.  Held in the Piedmont Triad for the first time in 2008, this conference is committed to establishing a strong environment for the support of entrepreneurs, bringing together the "champions" and the necessary resources. For more information including a video overview of entrepreneurship in the region and clips from the 2008 Summit, click here.

Resources. To help entrepreneurs be successful, a variety of resources are available throughout the Piedmont Triad including networking opportunities, connecting entrepreneurs with capital, providing management and technical assistance, increasing access to educational services, supporting incubators, and facilitating connections among entrepreneurs, potential clients and customers.

Another way in which PTP is further helping entrepreneurs is by facilitating the ease of finding the right resources for their particular need. In partnership with the Department of Labor and the National Business Information Clearinghouse, a regional web-based portal to help entrepreneurs find the resources and connections they need is currently in developoment. 

Contact any of these resources to find out why the Piedmont Triad is “The Right Place” for entrepreneurs.