CONCORD, NC – A new cohort of local entrepreneurs has completed the Retail Lab Boot Camp, the program’s ninth cohort. The six-week program supports retail founders at various stages of growth through instruction in business strategy, branding, marketing, e-commerce, point-of-sale, and inventory management, culminating in a pitch showcase for grant funding.
“The Retail Lab is an amazing resource and growth experience,” said Don Zufall of Zufall Soap Company. “It gives small business owners like me a much better chance to grow with both competence and confidence.”
This cohort included established businesses preparing for expansion alongside early-stage entrepreneurs, representing apparel, specialty items, and innovative retail concepts. Two businesses connected to the newly opened District Exchange participated, further expanding retail opportunities in Downtown Concord. The Retail Lab has a strong track record of supporting long-term business success, with alumni opening physical storefronts, growing e-commerce operations, and creating local jobs.
The Retail Lab is a collaboration between the Small Business Center at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and the Flywheel Foundation, supported by Allegacy, the Bill & Debbie Dusch Charitable Foundation, and the Cities of Concord and Kannapolis.
“Although I usually put the educational foot forward, the networking and relationships built throughout the Retail Lab are just as valuable,” said Meg Johnson, Director of the Small Business Center. “Great connections and collaboration happened as a result of this cohort.”
Graduates receive a complimentary three-month membership to Flywheel Coworking, providing continued access to professional workspace at the Cabarrus Center and ongoing support from regional partner organizations.
Click here to complete an interest form for the next Retail Lab session. Contact Grant Colgan at the Flywheel Foundation for more information.
