Carolina Startup Group
The Carolina Startup Group (CSG) at UNC Chapel Hill is dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration across diverse fields. We aim to create an inclusive community where students can connect, collaborate, and transform their ideas into impactful ventures. CSG embraces a diverse range of disciplines, including technology, creative arts, innovative product development, medical advancements, and beyond, reflecting the varied passions of our members.
Goals and Vision
Foster Collaboration: Bring together students from various disciplines to tackle real-world problems in team-based projects.Provide Resources: Offer mentorship, partnerships, and hands-on experience to support entrepreneurial endeavors.Build Community: Create a close-knit group of like-minded individuals passionate about innovation and success.Prepare for the Future: Equip members with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to excel in the startup ecosystem.
Key Activities and Offerings
1. Educational Programming
•Guest Speakers: Hear from successful entrepreneurs and experts with industry experience.
•Workshops and Seminars: Cover topics like equity splits, team dynamics, communication, and goal-setting strategies.
•Curriculum Development: Learn practical skills such as pitching ideas, constructing project teams, and setting goals.
2. Team-Based Projects
•Form teams based on shared interests and complementary skills.
•Develop and collaborate on projects guided by mentors and project leads.
•Showcase work through presentations and competitions.
3. Competitions and Funding Opportunities
•Pitch Competitions: Compete for funding, mentorship, and resources.
•Grants and Sponsorships: Gain financial support and promotional opportunities.
4. Partnerships and Mentorship
•Collaborate with local startups, companies, and entrepreneurs.
•Access internships and mentorship programs.
•Build a network of professionals to guide your entrepreneurial journey.
Leadership
President(Suwannee Skinner)
•Acts as the primary leader and visionary for CSG, ensuring all activities align with the club’s mission.
•Oversees all operations, from team projects to partnerships and events.
•Represents the club at university meetings and with external organizations
•Sets goals for the club and works with other executives to achieve them.Vice President of Operations(Ajay Misra)
•Serves as the President’s right-hand, helping to manage workflow and club operations.
•Oversees the executive team, ensuring all roles work cohesively.
•Ensures smooth execution of events, projects, and meetings.
•Steps in as acting President when needed.Director of Programming and Curriculum(Erik Fowler)
•Designs agenda and topics for club meetings, ensuring they are engaging and educational.
•Develops workshops, speaker sessions, and skill-building activities tailored to members' interests.
•Ensures a balance between hands-on project work and educational content.Programming and Curriculum Chair(Open)
•Supports the Director of Programming by brainstorming ideas for meetings and sourcing content.
•Assists with event logistics, such as booking speakers, preparing materials, and managing schedules.
•Helps gather feedback from members to refine meeting agendas and improve future programming.Director of Partnerships and Outreach(Rowan Hughes)
•Builds relationships with local startups, businesses, and entrepreneurs to create opportunities for collaboration.
•Secures guest speakers
•Negotiates sponsorships and partnerships
•Acts as the main liaison between the club and external stakeholders.Partnerships and Outreach Chair(Open)
•Supports the Director by researching and contacting potential collaborators
•Maintains a database of partners, sponsors, and other relevant contacts.
•Helps facilitate communication between external organizations and project teams.Director of Marketing and Media(Sophia Rundle)
•Oversees branding and ensures messaging across all platforms
•Manages social media accounts, posting event updates, photos, and success stories.
•Creates promotional materials to engage current and prospective members.
•Tracks and analyzes marketing campaigns to improve reach and effectiveness.Project Leads(Open)
•Each mentor supports 1-2 teams, offering guidance and ensuring projects stay on track.
•Provides advice on project challenges, connects teams with relevant resources, and facilitates problem-solving.
•Acts as a bridge between the executive team and project groups, reporting progress and identifying needs.
•Helps project teams prepare for presentations, competitions, or pitches.
