About CRFE
A catalyst to support organizations and initiatives that cultivate high growth entrepreneurial, innovative enterprises and create economic prosperity in the Charlotte region.
With The Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE), the vision of a dynamic and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within Charlotte is achievable.
The CRFE is a charitable fund aimed at strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, supporting increased innovation, improving development of high-growth entrepreneurs, and ultimately increasing job creation. Founded in 2013 as a public-private initiative between the city of Charlotte and the Foundation For The Carolinas, the CRFE is a non-profit, 501c3 entity.
The CRFE seeks tax-deductible donations to fund non-profit organizations and unique programs that help entrepreneurs develop the business skills, technical talent and networks necessary to grow. Through a distinctive partnership between the City and CRFE, private sector tax-deductible donations will be matched one-for-one up to $500,000 by the City to provide an initial $1,000,000 for CRFE grant funding.
Building on that seed funding, the CRFE will continue to grow its pool of resources that ensure a welcoming and thriving environment for entrepreneurs.
History
Innovate Charlotte is the execution arm of the Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship that was launched in 2017.
Building on the seed funding received from the CRFE, the Innovate Charlotte will continue to grow its pool of resources that ensure a welcoming and thriving environment for entrepreneurs.
Chairman's Comments
“Charlotte, USA is a great community, filled with people who care. Just as we want our fellow citizens to have the best services throughout their lifetime, we want our businesses, new and old, to thrive in a supportive environment. With a spirit of caring for our community today and for generations to come, I invite you to support a unique public-private initiative that is caring for our region’s growing entrepreneurial community, the Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship.”
- David Jones, Co-Founder Flexential
Board Members
An independent board of directors governs the CRFE with its management provided by the Foundation For The Carolinas (FFTC). Board members are appointed by the Mayor of Charlotte, the City Manager of Charlotte, and FFTC management. An advisory committee of community and business leaders also support the activities of the CRFE.
Resources
CRFE Study
Mapping the Ecosystem
An in-depth look at the Charlotte region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the programs that impact high growth entrepreneurs.
Growth Index
The Charlotte Region Entrepreneurial and Growth Index
The first systematic effort to measure Charlotte’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem and is designed to provide two specific outcomes.
Donate
Become a catalyst for entrepreneurship in the Charlotte region with a gift to the CRFE/Innovate Charlotte. Contact us to learn more or to make a tax-deductible donation, click below to donate.
Contact CRFE
Entrepreneurship
c/o The Foundation for the Carolinas
220 North Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Will Jones
704-973-4542
[email protected]
Click here to make a donation.
Send Us a Message
Thank you for your interest in the CRFE. Please complete the form below to get in touch with us.