Our Regional Approach
From the coast to the mountains, innovation happens all across North Carolina.
In the coastal plains of eastern North Carolina, universities such as East Carolina, Fayetteville State, UNC Pembroke, UNC Wilmington, and Elizabeth City State are advancing research in health sciences, agriculture, aquaculture, and defense technology.
Nestled in the mountains, Appalachian State, Western Carolina, and UNC Asheville are driving growth in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and the outdoor economy.
NCInnovation connects this statewide network through seven university-based hubs across four regions: East, West, Piedmont, and Charlotte. Each hub links university researchers with local businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs. Together, they create a unified innovation ecosystem that fuels innovation, builds companies, and drives regional economic development.
