Insights

When I first heard about the Startup TNT Associate Program through CED, I was driven by a simple but powerful motivation: I wanted to become more involved in North Carolina’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. As someone who dreams of becoming an entrepreneur, I knew I needed to immerse myself in the community, understand the landscape, and start building the connections that would one day help me turn my ideas into reality. CED’s mission to support founders immediately resonated with me. Their commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed means not just supporting today’s founders, but also investing in future ones like myself. This alignment made applying to the Startup TNT Associate Program an easy decision.

Going into the program, I expected to be given routine, “busy work” tasks—maybe some research, a bit of data entry, or shadowing meetings. Instead, I was thrown straight into real-world projects, with my very first days spent preparing for Venture Connect, a major event in the local startup scene.

This hands-on involvement was both challenging and exhilarating. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a real taste of what it’s like to work in the fast-paced world of startups. One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to build my professional network. Before joining CED, my connections in the startup world were limited, and I had little idea of the resources available in my own backyard. Through the program, I was introduced to a vibrant ecosystem in the RDU area, full of passionate founders, mentors, and fellow associates who were always willing to offer advice and support.

The mentorship I received was a highlight of my experience. My mentors and peers were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly generous with their time. Whether I needed career advice, personal guidance, or just someone to bounce ideas off of, they were always there. This sense of community made me feel supported and empowered to ask questions and take initiative. Perhaps the most unexpected lesson I learned was the true importance of networking. I realized that building relationships is just as important as building skills. The connections I made have already opened doors and introduced me to opportunities I never would have found on my own.

As I look to the future, I plan to use the skills and knowledge I gained at CED to either launch my own venture or advance my professional career. I now understand how to leverage resources, navigate the ecosystem, and, most importantly, the value of a strong network. If you’re considering the Startup TNT Associate Program, my advice is simple: network, network, network! Take full advantage of everything CED has to offer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out mentors, and get involved in as many projects as you can. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out.

In conclusion, this experience has fundamentally changed how I view the entrepreneurial landscape. I’ve learned that being an entrepreneur means wearing many hats, being adaptable, and always being willing to go the extra mile. It’s about building relationships, taking initiative, and never being afraid to dive into the unknown. I’m grateful for my time at CED and excited to see where these new connections and skills will take me. The Startup TNT Associate Program didn’t just teach me about startups, it helped me become part of a thriving community, and for that, I couldn’t be more thankful.

Kelvin Mccaffity Jr. is a senior at NC Central University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. His anticipated graduation date is May 2025.