Carolina Startup Connect offers students and startups an event that gives students learning and career development opportunities with high-growth startup companies, social ventures and innovative opportunities in the Research Triangle region. Think career fair …but not! No suits or resumes here. Students should come prepared to mingle with a diverse group of businesses and founders in a casual environment. Local companies and nonprofits that are eager to work with talented students through internship and employment are given a free opportunity to post their jobs and mingle with candidates.

The first hour is a focused discussion panel that showcases black- and female-founded startups, offering s an opportunity to hear from underrepresented, successful entrepreneurs. The second hour is a broad networking meet-and-greet session that gives students a chance to mingle with a variety of startups, small businesses and social initiatives seeking interns or employees.