Photo Courtesy: 1789

CHAPEL HILL – 1789 is not just the year UNC was founded—it’s the newest business incubator to open in Chapel Hill. It’s geared towards Carolina students and recent graduates, with the goal of supporting the area’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Following in the footsteps of Launch Chapel Hill, which opened in May– 1789 will act as a feeder to its predecessor.

Launch nurtures the more advanced businesses that are ready to seek funding— whereas 1789 is about developing young entrepreneurs and assisting them in the early stages of their business ventures.

1789 was recently recognized by Friends of Downtown Chapel Hill at the organization’s monthly meeting.

“When they have to leave 1789, they will be going over to Launch, and we will then—once Launch launches them—we then, hopefully, will have them a businesses in Chapel Hill,” said Pat Evans, Chair of the Friends of Downtown Chapel Hill.

Evans says there are currently 15 start-ups working there now.

The facility, located above Four Corners on Franklin Street, offers multiple small and large working spaces, a 20 seat bar, and conference rooms.

Mentors for the program include faculty and staff from the UNC Center for Entrepreneurial Studies and the Kenan-Flagler Business School. Partner the program include the Town of Chapel Hill, Innovate Carolina, and the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership.