A Hub of Collaboration, Making Real Economic Impact

The Cabarrus Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship

The vision for the Cabarrus Center began taking shape in 2020, when the Cabarrus EDC partnered with Flywheel Coworking to transform the historic Cabarrus Savings Bank building into a modern workspace and resource hub for entrepreneurs in the heart of Downtown Concord.

The Center officially opened in March 2021, featuring over 20 private offices, shared meeting spaces, and common areas tailored for startups and small businesses seeking flexible, professional environments. The initiative reflects the EDC’s commitment to offering a centralized, accessible, “one-stop” space for innovation and small business growth.

A Network of Partners
From its inception, the Center has been a testament to public-private partnerships. The Cabarrus EDC and Flywheel are joined by cornerstone collaborators including the Cabarrus Chamber, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Small Business Center, and the Flywheel Foundation.

Through the Cabarrus Entrepreneurship Council, the Center also connects with organizations such as the NC Research Campus, Hydromer, NC Biotechnology Center, Women’s Business Center of Charlotte, and more—reflecting deep integration into the local entrepreneurial ecosystem

Driving Growth and Innovation
Operating “under one roof,” the Center provides support across all stages of business development—from idea to growth and established operations. It does so through a suite of targeted programs:

• Retail Lab Boot Camp: A six-week immersive program supporting early-stage and pre-launch retailers.
• Venture Mentoring Service (VMS) (launched January 2022): Leveraging MIT-licensed team mentorship models, VMS supports entrepreneurs at critical phases. In its first year, 27 entrepreneurs across 15 ventures benefited from guidance by 35 volunteer mentors.
• Seminar Series and Community Education: In partnership with Flywheel, the Center hosts free public seminars such as “Business Basics Made Simple,” covering marketing, accounting, operations, and more—offering real-world guidance to small business owners and prospective founders

A Legacy of Innovation
Since its opening in 2021, the Cabarrus Center has rapidly evolved into a dynamic ecosystem where idea-stage innovators, growing ventures, and seasoned business owners converge. It stands as a symbol of EDC’s strategic vision—incubating ideas, fostering community, and strengthening the economic fabric of Cabarrus County.