The Ben Craig Center is a program, a physical place, and an organization. We support the success of start-up and early-stage entrepreneurs. We accomplish this principally through business incubation and acceleration services provided at our well-equipped 50,000 square foot building located in the University Research Park . The Center seeks to work with entrepreneurial growth companies that are built upon innovative technologies, business processes, or business models.

The Ben Craig Center, Inc. is a non-profit organization sponsored by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and has strong links to business leaders throughout the vibrant Charlotte region.

In the past 20 years, the Ben Craig Center has been home to 119 organizations. Approximately 90 firms are considered graduates. Center companies have created over 1100 jobs and attracted $149+ million invested capital. The Center serves several hundred individuals annually through entrepreneurship-related programs and seminars.

Business Model and Governance

The Ben Craig Center, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)3 corporation. It is governed by a Board of Directors that includes regional entrepreneurs, business executives, professionals, and university leaders.

The Center’s operation is funded primarily through client rent and fees. UNC Charlotte provides substantial financial support and corporate sponsorships provide valuable support. Significant in-kind services are provided by board members, volunteer mentors and professional service providers.

Resident client-tenants pay rent and receive a variety of business advisory services at no additional charge. Affiliate clients pay an annual fee to receive similar business advisory services. The Center offers accounting advisory services on a monthly fee basis.

UNC Charlotte Connection

The Ben Craig Center serves as the University’s entrepreneurial resource and is fully integrated with the business engagement mission of the Charlotte Research Institute. The university chancellor and other senior officers serve on the Center board of directors. The Center is a resource for faculty, researchers, and students seeking to commercialize innovations through new venture formation. The Center is the portal into the university for early-stage entrepreneurs seeking to leverage university resources.