develop the mindset to take your next steps.
Embark on the Pathways to Entrepreneurial Success
If you’re ready to explore entrepreneurship, the Center for Creative Economy’s Pathways for Entrepreneurial Success program is for you. In just six weeks, you’ll gain the skills, confidence, and connections to grow your mindset as an entrepreneur. Designed to help guide you through your next steps, Pathways introduces you to a vibrant network of entrepreneurial programs and resources in our community.
- Develop your mindset as an aspiring entrepreneur exploring a business idea
- Engage in a opportunity to test and develop business ideas with like-minded peers
- Learn in a welcoming space where no prior business experience is required
- Connect with resources to support your journey
Whether you have a business idea or are just starting to dream, Pathways helps you develop the mindset to take your next steps.
Turn Ideas Into Reality
Why Pathways?
From building a strong business foundation to connecting with a supportive community, Pathways offers the resources and tools needed to succeed. You’ll connect firsthand with other entrepreneurs, just like you, who are using the program to gain confidence, develop practical skills, and begin the first steps toward starting their businesses with a clear path forward.
Who is Eligible?
Pathways is a free program open to residents of Winston-Salem, North Carolina from low-to-moderate income households. The curriculum is targeted toward budding entrepreneurs who have not yet started their business and are looking to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and connect with local support organizations.
How do I apply?
Pathways is offered twice annually and takes place in person on Tuesday evenings for six weeks. Applications typically open about two months before the start of each cohort and can be completed directly through our website.
Our next cohort will take place September 16, 2025 – October 21, 2025. Check back here on our website to apply beginning August 12, 2025.
What is the cost?
Participation in Pathways is FREE!
Where can Pathways take me?
As part of the Pathways program, you’ll be introduced to local entrepreneurial support organizations that can help guide your next steps in areas like building a business plan, accessing funding opportunities, and connecting with business mentors. Two participants in each cohort will be selected to receive a $500 seed grant to support their continued growth. Pathways is designed to connect you with the people and tools you need to move forward with confidence.
Pathways Curriculum
Pathways for Entrepreneurial Success is based on the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program and adapted to fit the needs of those in the local, Winston-Salem community. Our customized curriculum will help you develop the mindset needed to start turning your business dreams into reality.
Learn to identify real-world needs and align them with your strengths to uncover market opportunities
Use the Opportunity Discovery Canvas to evaluate and refine your ideas
Explore how to establish a personal brand that reflects your mission and supports sustainability of your business idea
Strengthen your network through peer collaboration and connections with local entrepreneurial support organizations
"Prior to attending Pathways, I didn’t have the confidence I needed to believe in myself to go forward with my idea. ... Now I truly believe that I can make this business ownership opportunity a reality!"
Patricia
2024 Pathways Alum“This program has strengthened my belief in myself. I've learned the skills I'll need to make my dream come true.”
Yolanda
2024 Pathways Alum"I would highly recommend pathways because it positively impacts mindset. In addition, participants come away with real-life methods to start or improve their business."
Dennette
2025 Pathways AlumThank you to our sponsors and partners
Pathways Core Sponsors
Pathways ECOSYSTEM PARTNERS
Thank you to our sponsors and partners
Pathways Core Sponsors
Pathways ECOSYSTEM PARTNERS