Charlotte to Celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week

Published on November 17, 2025

Female business owner standing in her store posing for a photo.

The Queen City’s entrepreneurial spirit will shine bright later this month in celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) in Charlotte with more than 20 events across the city Nov. 17-23.

In recognition of the city's growing innovation economy, Mayor Vi Lyles has officially proclaimed Nov. 17–23 as Global Entrepreneurship Week in Charlotte.

Part of a global movement celebrated in over 180 countries, GEW Charlotte connects local founders, creators and innovators with the resources and relationships they need to thrive.

“Global Entrepreneurship Week is a celebration of our city’s entrepreneurial spirit and a reminder of how far we’ve come,” Lyles said. “This year’s global theme, ‘Together We Build,’ reflects the power of collaboration in shaping Charlotte’s future. Whether you're launching a startup or simply curious about the journey, this week is an invitation to plug in, learn and take pride in the success stories being written here in our city.”

Organized by Charlotte Economic Development, GEW Charlotte will feature workshops, panels, networking sessions and celebrations that showcase the momentum, diversity and resilience of Charlotte’s startup ecosystem.

Charlotte Economic Development is working in collaboration with local nonprofits, educational institutions, tech leaders, and startup support organizations to deliver a week of programming.

Events include:

The GEW Charlotte Celebration, a networking event from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the Skyline Room at Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts.
The JA Entrepreneurial Pitch Competition, a collaboration between Junior Achievement of Central Carolinas and UNC Charlotte’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

This marks Charlotte’s fifth year participating in Global Entrepreneurship Week.

View the full schedule and register for events at www.gewcharlotte.com.