
The North Carolina Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) has opened registration for the latest in their online course offerings created to educate and provide support for entrepreneurs across the state.
The upcoming course titled “Taking the Leap For Military Entrepreneurs” will be taking place online from Aug. 23-30 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This course is open to anyone connected to the military whether it be active, reserve, spouse or Veteran.
"We are thrilled to offer the Military Taking the Leap course in late August and October 2024, taught by Lindsay Hinger. As a two-time business owner, Veteran, board member of the NC Veteran Business Association and SBTDC Business Launch Specialist, Lindsay brings unparalleled expertise and leadership to our program. She's the perfect instructor to guide Veterans on their entrepreneurial journey," shared Interim Director of the SBTDC Business Launch Program Neal McTighe, PhD.
These military cohorts offer an opportunity for high-potential startups and founders to network with fellow entrepreneurs and with members of the North Carolina Veterans Business Association. With a focus on interactive learning, participants will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors and guest mentors.
Participants can anticipate acquiring the following:

The course will also allow participants to receive access to funding opportunities which, according to the SBTDC, is one of the biggest barriers faced by military entrepreneurs.
"Our military-focused cohort provides comprehensive business development support, empowering participants to transform their entrepreneurial visions into reality. Through interactive workshops, peer networking and expert guidance, we equip Veterans and military spouses with the essential tools and knowledge to launch successful businesses,” said Course Instructor Lindsay Hinger. “Our program focuses on building strong foundations in business ownership, while offering ongoing mentorship to navigate challenges and achieve long-term success."
Registration is free. Learn more and register online here.
At center, Chancellor Darrell T. Allison and Juanette Council, Ed.D., vice chancellor for student affairs, cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand reopening of Fayetteville State University's newly renovated Spaulding Building, joined by campus leaders
FCEDC has officially moved its staff and operations to 611 W. Russell St. The 35,800- square-foot center was previously home to Homemakers Furniture and Interiors. Renovations began in the fall of 2025 and are expected to be completed in the next six to eight months. Currently, FCEDC staff are working within an open 7,500-square-foot floor plan as initial improvements progress.
Inset: Systel’s first corporate headquarters was a small rental house turned office on Fort Bragg Road in Fayetteville in 1981. Large photo: The company’s new corporate headquarters reflects years of growth into a multi-million dollar company that pr