Did you know that in 2015 Charlotte was ranked as one of the cities with the highest startup growth in the last year? The Project for innovation, Energy, and Sustainability, also known as PiES, is helping green businesses develop and grow. Recent studies show that businesses that used a business incubator have a 43% higher success rate than those who did not receive the support. The best part is that PiES is located right here in downtown Davidson. PiES is a nonprofit incubator that helps green startups create jobs. Here’s a look inside the Project for innovation, Energy, and Sustainability and what they are doing in our community.
PiES is a public-private partnership that was established in January of 2010. Located on S. Main Street in Davidson, the Project for innovation, Energy, and Sustainability places emphasis on recycling, energy efficient, green buildings, and renewable energy. This nonprofit is community-based receiving support from regional colleges and universities. Companies in the region that use PiES include Focal Point Energy, Climate Control Systems of the Carolinas, Stark Power, Nottingham Foods and Soccer Girl Probs.
The Project for innovation, Energy, and Sustainability won grant approval from the Ingersoll Rand Charitable foundation in support of their 2016 Green Idea Factory competition. This annual local high school competition celebrates green ideas which spark an enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and math. The Green Idea Factory competition combines education, innovation, green businesses and entrepreneurship that are all part of the NC Science Festival. Because of this grant, their outreach to all Charlotte-Mecklenburg high schools will increase. PiES also won the Region of Excellence Award for Growing the Economy from Central Council of Governments.
Networking
On the last Thursday of the month, the Project for Innovation, Energy, and Sustainability holds a networking event. This event is called Green Drinks Lake Norman. Each networking event features a discussion topic led by an expert in a sustainability-focused business. The next Green Drinks Lake Norman will be held on August 25th. The guest will be Gail Pieropan from Zenevo Racing. Another networking evening that benefits PiES is their annual March event: A Slice of Jazz. This annual event features live music, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. If you are visiting Davidson for business, you might enjoy stopping by PiES during your trip for one of their events!
If your travels bring you to the town of Davidson, consider a stay with us at our charming B&B, the Davidson Village Inn. Our Inn is conveniently located within walking distance of all Davidson has to offer. We are also right across the street from Davidson College. Davidson Village Inn offers 18 rooms. There is plenty of space to kick up your feet and relax.
If you are new to our region, don’t forget to download our free Davidson, NC Vacation Guide. This free guide is filled with information on the best places to eat, shop and fun activities to try during your stay. When booking your room, don’t forget to ask about our current specials. We’re happy to assist you in making your getaway extra special. We can have fresh flowers or local wine waiting in your room. Please give us a call at 704-892-8044 for more information.
