Pathway to Entrepreneurship’s mission is to broaden the ecosystem of support for new and aspiring entrepreneurs in Wake County by focusing on catalyzing entrepreneurship in underserved communities. There is a lot of great work already being done locally, and we want to make sure that people who are new to starting a business are directly connected to the best partners for their industry and specific need.
We can help provide business information and resources, no matter what
phase of business you are in:
CAWD engages you in idea generation for your small business through 1:1 sessions or workshops. We implement Design Thinking activities into the brainstorming process. Through career exploration, we can help you determine if entrepreneurship is a good fit by:
Identifying traits aligned with being a successful small business owner
Understanding why you are pursuing entrepreneurship
Determining if you are ready to start a business
Working on your business idea to see if it can be refined into a sustainable business model
If you determine that you're confident with your business idea and have the interest and capacity to start a business, CAWD will help with the following:
Due diligence work:
Business Plan Components Include:
With a completed business plan, you are ready to proceed with business creation. Our Program Staff can assist with the following:
Registering Business Name and Structure
Applying for permits or licenses
Understanding taxes
Setting up a business bank account
Establishing a website/social media, if relevant
Purchasing insurance
Setting up a bookkeeping system
After you have launched your business, Pathway to Entrepreneurship can help you:
Find initial clients
Create positive cash flow
Set a goal of profitability to create financial security
Connect to local and regional communities
Develop business opportunities
Once program participants have reached the point of financial sustainability they have reached the end of our program. At this point, we can support sustainable businesses by:
Connecting you with local organizations focused on supporting scaling businesses
Connecting you with the existing business ecosystem
Introducing you to local business chambers and relevant groups
Assisting you to find grants to further support your growth
Tyler Daniel is the Small Business Manager for the Capital Area Workforce Development Board, focused on helping entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
Barbara Brothers is the Business Engagement Director for the Capital Area Workforce Development Board, promoting economic growth...
Joseph Wilson, the Small Business Program Coordinator for the Capital Area Workforce Development Board, possesses a strong dedication to community engagement and...
Capital Area Workforce Development Board’s Pathway to Entrepreneurship program is supported in whole or in part by federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds awarded to Wake County Government by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Program award: $1,362,000.