University City Partners (@UnivCityCLT) is more than a supporter of small businesses—it’s a strategic builder of a connected, thriving local business ecosystem. Through intentional funding, partnerships, and visibility campaigns, UCP is elevating entrepreneurs, nurturing innovation, and making University City a hub for inclusive economic development.

In recent years, UCP has more than doubled its investment in small business programming, thanks in part to a special grant through its Small Business Initiative (SBI). This 40% increase in funding has allowed UCP to deepen its support and create more opportunities for locally owned businesses. However, as this one-time grant will not continue in 2025 or 2026, UCP is focused on maximizing its current impact.

Strategic Partnerships That Elevate

At the heart of UCP’s work is collaboration. In partnership with Charlotte City Council Member Renee Johnson, UCP is proud to support Sol’Delish, a Black-owned culinary business, in launching a new location in University City. This partnership is a model of civic and nonprofit synergy, supporting entrepreneurship while expanding access to high-quality local dining options.

UCP has also prioritized hiring locally for its signature events. For example, University City Wine Fest features partners such as Third Rock Events and Charlotte Destination Group, demonstrating UCP’s commitment to reinvesting event dollars back into the community. UCP’s ongoing relationship with Black-owned Exact Printing reflects this same commitment: by collaborating on promotional materials for both organizational branding and event execution, UCP is helping to scale local creative enterprises.

Expanding Reach and Visibility

With support from the Truist Foundation, UCP is producing Season Two of its podcast series to spotlight nine small businesses across the region. The podcast shares stories of resilience, vision, and growth—connecting new audiences to University City’s entrepreneurs and strengthening the visibility of underrepresented business owners.

UCP’s digital storytelling continues across channels. More than 30 small businesses have been featured on the University City YouTube channel, with even more being celebrated during the #SmallBusinessSpotlight campaign this May. These features not only highlight the businesses but also offer residents and institutions opportunities to support them directly.

Data-Driven Engagement and Growth

University City is home to a dynamic and growing small business community. Within the Municipal Service District (MSD), there are approximately 1,500 businesses, and the broader trade area includes more than 4,700. As of Q2 2024, UCP has engaged with over 966 businesses in the MSD—through visits, resource sharing, promotional programs, and direct outreach.

Insights from UCP’s SBI Small Business Survey show that:

• 57% of business owners report being satisfied or very satisfied with their location in University City.
• The average satisfaction rating is 3.7 on a 5-point scale.
• A majority of survey respondents identify as locally owned and operated, with 41% also describing themselves as single-location businesses.
• Top areas of support requested include general exposure, access to funding, and digital marketing, reinforcing UCP’s focus on visibility and growth.
• Business owners also cited needs in social media promotion, community engagement activities, and specialized considerations, which UCP continues to address through its events and outreach efforts.

According to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, nearly 90% of all firms in the Charlotte metro area are considered small businesses—reflecting national trends but also underscoring the importance of tailored, localized strategies. Reports from QCity Metro have also highlighted a surge in Black-owned business registrations in northeast Charlotte, reinforcing the significance of equity-led initiatives like UCP’s SBI and PR PRIDE investments.

Connected for Collective Growth

UCP continues to partner with regional anchors like UNC Charlotte, the City of Charlotte, and other institutions to ensure that small businesses have access to procurement pipelines, networking opportunities, and shared vendor platforms. These connections not only expand business reach but also build University City’s reputation as an inclusive and supportive district for entrepreneurs.

Looking Ahead

University City Partners is demonstrating what it means to grow with intention—where every investment, story, and connection contributes to a resilient and inclusive economy. Through targeted outreach, relationship-building, and on-the-ground engagement with over 960 businesses year-to-date, UCP continues to center small business needs in its programming and partnerships.

As part of our commitment to visibility and community pride, UCP is launching a month-long social media campaign during #NationalSmallBusinessMonth to spotlight the entrepreneurs who make University City thrive. Throughout May, we’ll be highlighting local businesses—sharing their stories, services, and successes—across our social platforms.

🔎 Be on the lookout across your favorite channels by following @UnivCityCLT on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Join us in celebrating #UnivCityCLT’s diverse, dynamic, and growing small business community—because when local businesses succeed, the entire district moves forward.