Bold Path Fellowship
ABOUT
NC IDEA Foundation and Provident1898 have partnered with the ECMC Group to bring the Bold Path Fellowship to Durham and the Triangle Region.
The Bold Path Fellowship is a two-year, full-time program that empowers individuals from under-resourced backgrounds who have earned a degree or credential to pursue entrepreneurship as a viable pathway following postsecondary completion. Through this program, we hope to support students who are passionate about entrepreneurship to choose the Bold Path.
Making Entrepreneurship a More Accessible and Equitable Career Pathway
boldpath fellowship
Program details
$120,000 in Non-Dilutive Grant Funding
Empowering low-income founders through $120,000 in non-dilutive grant funding over two years, the Bold Path Fellowship delivers the early “friends and family” capital often out of reach for many aspiring low-income founders.
Educational Programming and Capacity Building
Connecting Bold Path Fellows with community resources that deepen their understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and strengthen the skills required to launch and grow successful businesses.
Mentorship
Offering guidance from current or former business leaders in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem to help navigate the business development process.
Technical Assistance
Providing additional resources to help Fellows strengthen their business models, overcome early challenges, and establish viable ventures with long-term potential.
SPRING 2026
FELLOW SELECTION
SUMMER 2026
PROGRAM START
Who We Want to Support
Passionate early-stage or prospective entrepreneurs who come from under-resourced backgrounds and communities;
Students who will complete postsecondary education in Spring 2026 or individuals who have completed postsecondary education in the last five years (four-year college, community college, or vocational program);
Applicants who have a promising idea or high-potential existing business that supports positive social impact reflective of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and,
Individuals who are residents of the Durham or Research Triangle Region who are committed to building their venture in their community. Must live and operate business within 50 miles of Durham, NC.
Press Release
ECMC Group Launches the Bold Path Fellowship to Provide Entrepreneurial Onramps for Under-Resourced Residents in Durham and the Research Triangle Region of North Carolina
