On Holiday Selected as Spring 2026 NC IDEA $50k Seed Grant Finalist, Set to Pitch May 8th

Congratulations to the Spring 2026 NC IDEA SEED ($50K) Finalists! These companies are advancing economic development across North Carolina with ideas that spark growth, create jobs, and strengthen communities throughout our state.
NC IDEA announces statewide investments by the NC Tweener Fund, Powered by NC IDEA featuring founder, David Kaszycki and the Beam Dynamics team

This is a testament to the excellence David and his team bring to building Winston-Salem’s entrepreneurial ecosystem every single day. We’ve always prided ourselves on being a hub for NC IDEA grantees, and now we’re expanding that legacy into the investment space too.
Better Impact Acquires Galaxy Digital to Create the Largest Purpose-Built Platform for Volunteerism

Acquisition brings together 80,000+ organizations, 400+ volunteer centers, and 600 million+ hours of volunteer data to give volunteer professionals the tools, visibility, and support they deserve Winston-Salem, N.C. — Mar. 11, 2026 — Better Impact, the #1 rated volunteer management software on G2 for 2026, today announced it has acquired Galaxy Digital, a leading volunteer technology […]
WH Farms Co., Led by Winston Starts Founder Q. Nichole Vanderhorst, Named One of 10 Grant Recipients of N.C. Agriculture Manufacturing and Processing Initiative (NCAMPI)

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler today announced $7.6 million in grants focused on atmospheric controls for agricultural products to benefit farmers and growers in counties affected by Hurricane Helene.
Winston Starts Founders Partner with Greater Winston-Salem Inc. to Offer Postpartum Support

WINSTON-SALEM, NC (January 15, 2026) — Greater Winston-Salem Inc. is pleased to announce a new partnership with Mom League to provide enhanced postpartum support for employees, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to talent recruitment, retention, and modern workplace benefits that support families at every stage of life. Eligible Greater Winston-Salem Inc. employees will receive enrollment access […]
2025 Holiday Gift Guide

We get asked year round how our community can support Winston Starts Founders. The holiday season is a perfect time to show up in a small way to make a big impact. Our gift guide includes golf polos, cocktail-bar quality spritzes, healthy holiday catering, baked goods, delicious Southern sauce, wellness gifts, and even a caffeine […]
WH Farms Co. Expansion Brings Manufacturing to Winston-Salem

WH Farms Co. is a 4-year-old biotech startup that grows hemp on a USDA licensed North Carolina farm and processes it for use in topical beauty and wellness products. The company offers white label services for brands offering hemp-infused product lines.
North Carolina back on top in CNBC’s best-for-business ranking

North Carolina’s business-friendly reputation has once again propelled it to the top of a prestigious national ranking, but the state’s performance in one key category may raise eyebrows.
Winston-Salem Knows How to Start a Life Science Company

When starting a life science company, entrepreneurs have two unique challenges: bringing the science to life and building a business. These two aspects of starting a life science company require two different skill sets. Many companies have their hands full with developing a new product or service, and figuring out how to start a life science company can be overwhelming.
Japanese delegation tours Winston-Salem’s Innovation Quarter, exploring life sciences partnerships

Winston-Salem’s Innovation Quarter is drawing international attention, and local leaders say it’s a testament to the area’s unique offerings in life sciences.