Retail Lab Bootcamp Applications

This is a call for applications for participants in the Retail Lab.

To apply, interested parties must complete an application here: https://cabarruscenter.com/retail-lab/
Applications close on October 5, 2026. Applicants will be notified of status on October 9, 2026.

The Retail Lab was established at the Cabarrus Center through a partnership between the Flywheel Foundation and the Small Business Center at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

The program serves early-stage and pre-launch retail business owners in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties by providing an application-based, six-week immersive Boot Camp.

Curriculum topics include: Business Basics, Strategy, Branding and Marketing, E-commerce, Point-of-Sale and Inventory, and Real Estate/Licensing.

The Retail Lab will run on Wednesday nights from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (no class on Thanksgiving week). This cohort runs from Wednesday, October 14 thru the program graduation on Thursday, December 10.

Six-Week Business Bootcamp
The Retail Lab Boot Camp supports early-stage and aspiring business owners who are launching a brick-and-mortar or e-commerce business in retail goods, food and beverage products, or retail services. Applicants must plan to serve customers in Cabarrus or Rowan County, with priority given to businesses located in those counties.

Participants who graduate from the program will have an opportunity to pitch for grant funding through the Flywheel Foundation and will also receive a 3-month Flywheel Membership that includes space use at the Cabarrus Center, amenities, and member benefits.

Please visit https://cabarruscenter.com/retail-lab/ for more information and application instructions.