About

The Blackstone Entrepreneurs Network represents a unique approach to accelerating the growth trajectory of promising start-ups in the Research Triangle Park region in North Carolina and reflects an unprecedented collaboration between the region's major universities, its entrepreneurial community and the private sector.

Funded by a $3.63 million grant from The Blackstone Charitable Foundation in New York, the Network joins Duke, N.C. Central, N.C. State, UNC-Chapel Hill and the Council for Entrepreneurial Development to unleash the region's innovation potential through growth entrepreneurship.

The Network draws from the ranks of veteran "master entrepreneurs" to identify marketable innovations out of area universities and regional start-ups with the greatest potential to become high-growth companies. Master entrepreneurs then mentor these local entrepreneurs in company-building and provide access to the broader Blackstone Entrepreneurs Network. This greater network includes sector experts, venture coaches, angel investors and administrative and marketing support. The program aims to identify and mentor 30 start-up teams each year, for a total of 150 over its five-year span.

The Blackstone Entrepreneurs Network was launched April 25, 2011.