Chatham SPARK Program – 2026 Spring Cohort

About

The Chatham SPARK Program is an eight-week accelerator designed for entrepreneurs in Chatham County, North Carolina, offering structured courses, expert mentorship, and a chance to win a $5,000 startup grant, making it an excellent opportunity for those with a business idea or in development.

Benefits

• 🎓 Structured Course
• An eight-week structured entrepreneurship course designed to guide participants.
• 📊 Business Planning Tools
• Access to free business plan tools like LivePlan.
• 👨‍🏫 Expert Guidance
• Mentorship from experts in accounting, legal, and financing fields.
• 🎤 Pitch Opportunity
• Chance to present business plans to potential investors.
• 💰 Startup Grant
• One participant has the opportunity to receive a $5,000 reimbursable startup grant from the Chatham Chamber of Commerce.

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Chatham County, North Carolina.
• 💼 Business Idea Requirement
• Must have a business idea or be in the process of developing one.
• 🏢 Preference for Established Ideas
• Priority given to those with a clear business concept already in place.

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Attendance Requirement
• Must attend all sessions of the eight-week program.
• 🎤 Presentation Requirement
• Must prepare and present a business plan at the end of the program.

Target Region

Open to startups in Chatham County, North Carolina, USA

Target Sector

Open to all industries