Realize your business potential. ScaleUp provides intensive growth strategy development and implementation assistance to cohorts of Western North Carolina small businesses with strong potential for growth. This course is typically offered twice annually.
$675 for the primary participant and $225 for secondary participants
7 Sessions (3 mos.)
With now over 145 alumni companies, ScaleUp is supporting a diverse and distinguished group of entrepreneurs that will drive innovation and economic development across the WNC region for years.
Applying for ScaleUp
Get to know all the WNC entrepreneurs that have been accepted into the ScaleUp program.
Nick Moen
The Bright Angle
"The ScaleUp program was essential in establishing strategies for growth. The problem solving tools I learned in the program helped my business grow."
See how it works
Each cohort will be selected through a highly competitive, merit-based application process.
Founders, owners, or executive managers of growth-oriented small businesses are eligible to apply.
This growth stage of companies—after startup but before maturity—tends to be underserved in Western North Carolina (and nationally). ScaleUp WNC offers a unique opportunity to help expand growth-oriented businesses and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem across this region.
Businesses must meet the following eligibility standards:
Still have questions? See our FAQ
ScaleUp is a cohort-based program. Each participant will be part of a CEO network of up to 15 peer businesses and will receive tailored services to measurably advance their business and achieve significant business development milestones. See who is eligible to apply.
Cohort 11 will begin March 11, 2022 and will include 7 Core Concept Sessions, small group breakout sessions, a Kick-Off Event, and culminating in an opportunity to present at our live pitch event, Mountain Raise.
The Core Concept Sessions and Kickoff Event will be held in person, while some breakout sessions may be virtual.
Program benefits include, but are not be limited, to the following.
If you are interested in joining our community of mentors for ScaleUp WNC businesses, please fill out a quick—two questions and contact info—interest form, and we’ll add you to our growing network of mentors working to scale small businesses in WNC.
Email usDelivery of proven, established curricula for growth-oriented entrepreneurs and small businesses focused on the unique challenges of scaling established businesses. This intensive curriculum includes an opening VIP kickoff party, seven class-based sessions, and a culminating “demo day” showcase event.
Ten hours of one-on-one support, mentoring, and technical assistance from our team of business advisors and mentors with expertise including leadership, market research analysis, business strategy, technology development, operations, and sales growth assistance.
Assistance and connections to growth capital, including preparing investor due-diligence backup documentation, matchmaking events, and introductions with local lenders and investors.
Strengthening connections and networks, including developing valuable relationships with peer entrepreneurs, support resources, mentors, potential supply chain partners, etc.
We select around 15 businesses to participate in ScaleUp every year, and competitiveness depends on the number of applicants we receive.
Our ScaleUp family maintains close connections after going through the program; Mountain BizWorks hosts regular opportunities to network and reconnect, and many cohorts stay in touch long after their course is over. Past ScaleUp alumni have also been called on to share their entrepreneurial insight as coaches, mentors, and facilitators for Mountain BizWorks learning programs.
Financial aid is available for all of our learning programs. Scholarship applications are embedded in many individual class registrations; if not, please review our scholarship page and email scholarship@mountainbizworks.org with any questions or concerns.
To attend our virtual classes you will need a steady internet connection, a computer or reliable device, and note-taking material. Please let us know if you require extra support.
Subject to Public Health Guidelines and State and Local Regulations, core concept sessions will be held in-person. Whenever sessions or events are held in-person, we will provide a virtual option to accommodate those who wish to participate remotely.
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