Students and startup founders came together at the Innovate Carolina Junction for the Carolina Innovators Connect Meet-and-Greet, an annual event designed to spark connections, share insights and open doors to career opportunities. Hosted by Innovate Carolina in partnership with Honors Carolina and the University Career Center, the event featured a panel discussion followed by a networking session with entrepreneurs from across the Triangle.
The panel brought together founders at different stages of the startup journey, including leaders from TheRightOne, Carpe and HelioCampus. Through candid stories and advice, speakers offered students a behind-the-scenes look at building and growing a business, emphasizing adaptability, learning through experience and the value of community. For many students, hearing these real-world journeys made entrepreneurship feel more accessible and achievable.
Following the discussion, students connected directly with founders during a structured networking session, exploring internships, jobs and mentorship opportunities. Since launching in 2021, Carolina Innovators Connect has linked more than 850 students with over 190 startups, while also supporting hands-on learning through a summer internship fund that has provided more than $93,000 to student interns.
By hosting events like this at the Junction, Innovate Carolina continues to strengthen the bridge between student talent and the region’s innovation economy—helping students gain experience while supporting startups with the skills they need to grow.
>> Read more about Carolina Innovators Connect