While Majela Fonseca officially joined Hutchison PLLC 2.5 years ago as the Director of Marketing & Business Development, the firm’s relationship with CED spans decades. Founded by Fred Hutchison—also the Founding President of CED—the firm has long been a pillar of support for the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Hutchison PLLC has established a multi-year partnership with CED, serving as a dedicated sponsor of key programs such as the Investor Dinner, the Strength in Numbers Networking Event, and GRO Demo Day.
Majela believes that CED is essential in providing entrepreneurs with the support and connections they need to thrive. “CED acts as a facilitator of relationships between founders, entrepreneurs, and investors,” she explains. “In larger entrepreneurial hubs, the atmosphere can sometimes be competitive. Here, we have a close-knit, collaborative community that’s always willing to help each other.”
Beyond hosting high-quality programming and networking opportunities, CED creates an environment where entrepreneurs can find mentorship, guidance, and resources tailored to their needs. This culture of collaboration is what sets the region apart and ensures continued innovation and growth.
One standout moment for Majela was CED’s 40th-anniversary celebration. “It was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the entrepreneurial community and strengthen our existing relationships. Seeing the impact CED has had over the years reaffirmed why we continue to support this organization.”
As the entrepreneurial landscape evolves, so does CED. Majela envisions an even greater role for the organization over the next five years, with ongoing brand refresh efforts, expanded ecosystem mapping initiatives, and new tools designed to support startups. “With strong leadership in place, CED will remain a go-to resource for entrepreneurs seeking guidance and connections,” she says.
For those looking to engage with CED, Majela’s advice is to “Do it sooner rather than later.” While many founders focus on perfecting their products, she emphasizes the importance of having a community partner to provide strategic connections, insights, and resources. “By engaging with CED early, entrepreneurs can better understand the space, gain access to valuable expertise, and set themselves up for success.”
Through dedication to fostering collaboration and empowering entrepreneurs, the CED community remains a cornerstone of the region’s startup ecosystem. With partners like Hutchison PLLC championing its mission, the future looks bright for North Carolina’s entrepreneurial community.
