NEW BERN – Craven Community College (Craven CC) is seeking entrepreneurs and small business startups to take advantage of the Small Business Center (SBC) Generator, a new business incubator initiative at the Volt Center in New Bern.
The SBC Generator is located inside a refurbished commercial space and includes four 168-square-foot bays. Budding businesses will gain invaluable support, including onsite mentorship from experienced business professionals, access to educational resources and training programs, and shared amenities such as conference rooms and essential office equipment.
Aspiring entrepreneurs who are approved for the program can sign a license agreement for one of the bays for up to two years, which will include the following amenities:
- Single-entry door with covered entrance
- Signage space for branding
- Roll-up garage door with opener for easy access
- Heating and cooling mini-split system for comfort
- Convenient parking for clients and employees
- Water-sealed space with insulation and drywall
- Adequate lighting and controls, epoxy flooring, and a small sink
- Security presence provided by the Volt Center
The program primarily focuses on construction and light manufacturing businesses located in Craven County, but strong candidates from other sectors will also be considered. Once applications are reviewed, finalists will present their business plans to the SBC director and advisory committee for final selection. Approved businesses will enjoy affordable usage fees of $4 per square foot in the first year and $5 per square foot in the second year, with a maximum license agreement term of two years.
Craven CC began construction on the project in February 2024, made possible by funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Tuesday, February 18 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the SBC Generator's official launch.
Anyone interested in applying for a space at the Generator should contact SBC Director Dr. Jeff Wilke at 252-638-1088 or visit the SBC at 205 First St., Building 209, New Bern. More details are available at cravencc.edu/sbc.