Breaking Barriers for Founders: Wells Fargo Invests $20,000 in NC Entrepreneurs Through CED’s FORGE Program
Wells Fargo’s philanthropic investment will expand access to CED’s FORGE program, connecting founders and operators across North Carolina with the tools, mentorship, and community needed to scale their businesses.
Research Triangle Park, NC – July 16, 2026 – The Center for Entrepreneurial Development today announced a $20,000 grant from Wells Fargo to fund annual memberships in FORGE, CED’s premier program for founders and operators looking to scale their businesses.
Wells Fargo’s philanthropic investment will sponsor FORGE memberships for entrepreneurs across the region, removing financial barriers that can stand between talented founders and the growth they are ready to achieve.
“We’ve seen firsthand the companies that move from the GRO Incubator, to the Venture Connect stage, and the FORGE program. We’re thrilled to support more of the next wave founders get access to the FORGE network more formally.” said Julie Hampton, Senior Business Development Representative, Commercial Banking Triangle East Region, Wells Fargo.
Wells Fargo’s support builds on a growing legacy of community investment, joining our partners like Hutchison PLLC and Four Letter Ventures in helping CED expand access to FORGE for entrepreneurs across our region.
FORGE Scholarship recipients will gain access to proven leaders who have successfully scaled businesses, and will share real-world insights to help navigate challenges with confidence. CED hosts regular member-informed programs and workshops that help founders and operators make right decisions at the right time, depending on their business size and stage.
Members also benefit from resource-rich pathways — including workshops, tools, and templates tailored to tackle common startup challenges, from fundraising to team-building. “This investment allows us to put FORGE in the hands of founders who are ready to move. These are companies with real momentum, and when you pair that with the right operators, investors, and support network, you start to see acceleration happen quickly. Wells Fargo is helping us get the right people plugged in at the right time,” said JP Maloney, Startup Programs Lead, CED.
Among the entrepreneurs benefiting from Wells Fargo’s support is Ellora McTaggart, founder of Carolina Instruments. “Wells Fargo’s sponsorship of a CED membership gives Carolina Instruments deep access to the Research Triangle’s entrepreneurial ecosystem at a time when those connections matter most.
“As an early-stage hardware company, access to CED’s resources strengthens our ability to grow and execute. We’re grateful for the support” said McTaggart.
For more information about FORGE, visit the CED FORGE website or get in touch with JP Maloney.
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