Thrive Lab - UNCW CIE

The UNCW CIE is proud to announce the launch of Thrive Lab, a new 3+ month development program designed to equip business owners with the skills, mentorship, and strategic foundations needed to grow and strengthen their businesses.

Beginning March 2026, Thrive Lab will guide participants through a three-plus-month series of sessions focused on finance, funding, sales, product strategy, and leadership. Entrepreneurs will also build a strong peer network and receive hands-on support to develop the mindset and capabilities of CEOs, CFOs, and CPOs—all while preserving the unique strengths that make their business thrive.

Thrive Lab is designed for business owners who are ready to scale, strengthen their operations, and take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey.

Program Details:

Application Deadline:
 Friday, February 27, 2026, at 5 p.m.

Qualifications:

• You are the founder, co-founder, or owner of your business.
• Your company has revenue (pre-revenue startups are not eligible).
• You are actively looking to scale your business.
• You can commit to attending the monthly in person sessions in their entirety.
• The program is industry agnostic; all sectors are welcome.

Program Registration:

$750.00

The total fee for the program has been reduced to $750, made possible by a generous contribution from Wells Fargo that covered half of the original $1,500 cost. You will be invoiced upon admittance into the program. 

What’s in it for YOU?

• Mentorship and guidance; access to CIE mentors
• Connections to a network of UNCW community and ecosystem partners
• Hear from expert speakers and panelists
• Peer mentoring
• Included course materials
• Post-program support

Time Commitment (in-person sessions + mentor meetings)

• March 9 | 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | UNCW CIE
• April 13 | 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Location TBA (Wilmington region)
   Optional Happy Hour after the April 13 session
• May 11 | 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Vantaca 
• Graduation & Celebration: May 28 | UNCW Clocktower Lounge

In addition to these sessions, you will be matched with a mentor you will be assigned to meet with in between these sessions. 

Application Deadline:
 Friday, February 27, 2026, at 5 p.m.

Apply for Thrive Lab below: