Insights

Research Triangle Park, NC, September 23, 2024 – Get ready for a night of nostalgia and celebration as CED (Council for Entrepreneurial Development) marks 40 incredible years of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community! On October 15th, 2024, join us at the scenic Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary, NC, for an unforgettable evening that honors four decades of entrepreneurial success and transports us back to the year CED was founded: 1984.

This milestone 40th Birthday Bash is more than just a celebration—it’s a tribute to the Triangle’s thriving startup ecosystem, which CED helped build from its earliest days. As a founding force behind North Carolina’s entrepreneurial rise, CED has played a pivotal role in shaping innovation, and this event will bring the community together to celebrate the era that sparked it all.

The evening’s entertainment will be headlined by Yacht Rock Schooner, a top tribute band delivering the smooth sounds that ruled the 80s. In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy great food, drinks, and unmatched networking opportunities with the region’s leading innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs.

This event isn’t just about looking back—it’s a celebration of the future of entrepreneurship in North Carolina. Join us for a unique night that blends the best of the past with exciting possibilities for tomorrow. Let’s party like it’s 1984 and toast to the next 40 years of groundbreaking innovation and community building.

Event Schedule:

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Founder Stories (Invite Only)

• A special session dedicated to the founders who have shaped CED’s journey over the past 40 years.

4:00 PM – 7:30 PM: General Celebration

• Networking: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.
• Welcome: Hear from CED leaders about the organization’s impactful history and vision for the future.
• Opening Music: Kick off the party with some lively 80s tunes.
• Intermission, Networking and Dinner: Enjoy a meal and continue networking with peers.
• Main Band: Groove to the sounds of Yacht Rock Schooner as they perform the greatest hits of the 80s, making it a night to remember.

Ticket Prices:

General Admission

Includes 2 drink tickets: $49
6-Ticket Bundle: $249

VIP Admission

Includes access to VIP Area, Open Bar, Food & T-shirt: $149
6-Ticket Bundle: $749

For 40 years, CED has been at the heart of fostering a dynamic ecosystem for regional entrepreneurs. Through mentoring, financial backing, education, and vital connections, CED has helped countless startups launch and grow into thriving businesses.

“Reaching this 40-year milestone is a testament to the incredible entrepreneurial spirit of our community,” said Kelly Rowell, CED CEO. “We are thrilled to celebrate our history with a nod to the decade that started it all and are excited about continuing our support for innovators and visionaries in the years to come.”

Don’t miss out on this epic celebration of entrepreneurship, community spirit, and a love for all things 80s! Tickets are available now and can be purchased online: www.cednc.org/40th.

We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors for making this event possible. Special thanks to DesignHammer, EisnerAmper, Elemmir, Hutchison PLLC and Wyrick Robbins for their generous support and commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Triangle. Their contributions help ensure that our entrepreneurial community continues to thrive for the next 40 years and beyond! To explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.cednc.org/40th/#sponsor-packet.

Join us as we celebrate 40 years of entrepreneurial success, look back on our journey, and rock out to the smooth sounds of the 80s with Yacht Rock Schooner!

About CED (Council for Entrepreneurial Development)

The Council for Entrepreneurial Development was formed in 1984 by a group of business leaders wanting to empower the successful creation and growth of entrepreneurial companies in the North Carolina region. CED acts as the connective center for all of this to happen. Through high-touch support, education, access to capital, and crucial connections, CED brings entrepreneurs together with the optimal resources neede