I had the incredible opportunity to join the Startup TNT (Talent and Training) Program as an Associate, working with the Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) in the Triangle area. My experience here exceeded every expectation in every possible way, offering both intellectual growth and invaluable networking opportunities that I will carry with me throughout my career.
CED stands at the heart of the Triangle’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through this program, I had the privilege of connecting with a diverse group of startups, investors, advisors, and other key players in the local ecosystem. This network has been essential not just for the cohort I worked with, but for my own personal growth as well.
As an Associate in the GRO Incubator Track, I was fortunate to assist Preet Mankad, Startup Programs Lead at CED, in running various sessions. I worked on topics that matter deeply to early-stage companies, such as “Crafting an Effective Investor Pitch” and “Cash Flow Management for Startups.” These sessions were not just theoretical; I had the opportunity to interview successful entrepreneurs and extract key lessons that could benefit our cohort. This hands-on approach allowed me to contribute directly to the growth of others while learning from those who had walked the path before me.
From this experience, I gained three key takeaways that will shape my future:
- The Importance of Mentorship
Mentorship is a cornerstone for success, whether you’re a founder, a professional, or navigating a career in NYC or beyond. At CED, I saw firsthand how guidance from experienced mentors can help founders avoid pitfalls and fast-track their progress. The mentors at CED, including those who worked directly with us, were incredibly supportive and always eager to offer their knowledge and insights. - The Power of Networking
Networking is often said to be the key to success, but the value of a strong network really hit home during my time with CED. By staying connected to the community here in the Triangle, I learned that the power of proximity to the right people can create exponential opportunities. Through CED’s network, I was able to connect with professionals and entrepreneurs who gave me access to resources and knowledge that would have otherwise taken years to acquire. - Resilience and the Art of Iteration
One of the most important lessons I learned was the power of resilience. As an entrepreneur or professional, understanding your audience and iterating quickly is essential. It’s not always about getting it right the first time, but about being able to fail fast, learn, and adjust. This mindset of resilience has become a core part of how I approach challenges—whether it’s for a startup or any venture in my career.
Additionally, my time with CED helped me hone my public speaking skills. Facilitating sessions and helping the GRO Incubator cohort materialize their startup ideas allowed me to practice articulating my thoughts more effectively. These soft skills—such as communication and leadership—are critical, and I feel much more confident in my ability to guide others as I move forward in my career.
Networking is often said to be the key to success, but the value of a strong network really hit home during my time with CED. By staying connected to the community here in the Triangle, I learned that the power of proximity to the right people can create exponential opportunities.
What sets CED apart is the incredible people behind it. Everyone I encountered was receptive to new ideas and deeply committed to seeing you succeed—not just in the program, but in your future endeavors. This supportive environment extended beyond the GRO Incubator Track into career coaching, where we had the privilege of working with experts to help us reach our next professional milestone.
One of the most unique aspects of the Startup TNT program was the field trips to various startups in the area. These visits gave us the rare opportunity to learn directly from founders who shared their journeys and insights. These experiences were invaluable for gaining a deeper understanding of what it takes to build a successful business from the ground up.
As a second-year MBA candidate at Duke University, I can honestly say that my time at CED has been a game-changer. The knowledge, connections, and skills I’ve gained through this program have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the chance to have worked alongside such driven and inspiring individuals. I look forward to carrying these lessons forward as I continue to build my career, and I strongly encourage anyone in the Triangle area to stay close to CED—they truly provide the resources and community that can propel your growth at lightning speed.
Rahul Narang is a second-year MBA student at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business pursuing a dual major in Finance (Corporate and Investments). Rahul’s anticipated graduation date is May 2025.
