On April 6, the partnership between UNC Pembroke’s Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub and the UNC School of Law was highlighted during the Celebrating Legal Service to the State event in Chapel Hill.
UNC’s law faculty and students shared impactful stories of how they have helped for-profit and nonprofit businesses across the state.
“Startups and small businesses in rural communities face extraordinary challenges and are chronically underfunded,” said Marjorie White, clinical law professor and director of the Startup NC Law Clinic. “It’s a privilege to provide legal services for these startups and small businesses, and, in fact, it’s part of our mission.”
Dennis Lowery, owner of Chicora Engineering, was also in attendance and explained how pleased he is with the service he receives from the Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub.
For the last two years, Lowery has received free legal counseling services courtesy of the UNC law students and the Institute for Innovation.
“I’m thankful to the Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub and UNC School of Law for allowing me to participate in this partnership,” Lowery said. “I will never be able to repay them for the time and the value they have brought to my business.”
Lowery is one of ten startups and small business owners operating out of the downtown Pembroke incubator.
The Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub opened in 2015 and serves the community by helping startups and small businesses start and grow into successful companies. The Hub is an engine of economic growth and innovation for Pembroke and southeastern North Carolina.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
