Business Opportunities

When preparation meets opportunity.

A vibrant area with everything needed to move forward. University City is a great place for existing businesses and startups to be and grow.

Business Owners

Since the establishment of UNC Charlotte in response to a rising demand for education generated by advancement in technology, University City has stepped up to meet the current and future needs of the business market.

The area is now home to large, mid-sized and small businesses, students, families and young professionals who come here to learn, create, plant roots and thrive. Together, these businesses and individuals make up University City, Charlotte’s second largest employment center outside of Center City.

“From the business perspective, it makes great sense to be here because of the location and access.”– Dr. Michael Dockery, Ortho Carolina.

Attractions & Amenities

University City is home three incredible office parks, all enjoying significant investment. Originally created to meet the growing demand for technology jobs, our business parks are evolving for today’s employer and employees. You will find mixed-use development for employees to work closer to their place of employment. University City is also increasing pedestrian access through sidewalks and bike lanes from light rail stations and throughout office parks to accommodate the business community.

University Executive Park is in walking distance to the area’s largest shopping and entertainment center with IKEA, Hobby Lobby, Marshall’s, Old Navy, Topgolf and more at its back door.

Innovation Park, the largest office complex in University Research Park, has new owners with ambitious plans that include more offices, housing, shopping and other uses.

News

Celebrating Growth, Community, and Creative Expression at the 2025 Juneteenth Art Fest

University City came alive on June 19, 2025, with over 9,500 attendees gathering at the Shoppes at University Place for the second annual Juneteenth Art Fest. This year’s celebration was nothing short of extraordinary—merging history, culture, and art in a vibrant,...

Sunshine & Trail Time: Your July Passport to Outdoor Joy

 – By Janelle Goodrich Step onto the Path… Close your eyes for a moment and picture this: you’re standing beneath a cathedral of oaks, patches of sunlight flickering across the trail like confetti. A hush settles over the woods, broken only by the chatter of...

Beyond the Balance Sheet: Marcus Smith, Our New Treasurer with Big-Block Vision

 – by Janelle Goodrich We’re kicking off our Meet the Board Series with Marcus Smith, Bank of America relationship manager, newly elected Treasurer, and incoming chair of the Finance Committee. Marcus isn’t just a numbers guy—he’s a growth architect who believes...

Culture Meets Commerce: Juneteenth Art Fest Sparks Economic Growth in University City

University City’s Juneteenth Art Fest was more than a commemoration of freedom—it was a powerful expression of economic empowerment and cultural pride. Held at University Place, the free festival drew thousands of residents and visitors from across the Charlotte metro...

Flournoy Development Strengthens Growth in University Research Park

University City Partners (UCP) proudly supports the Flournoy development in University Research Park—a thoughtfully designed multifamily residential community that advances the district’s vision for a connected, vibrant, and inclusive University City. Located along...

Public Safety, Clean Streets, and a Community That Cares

By Janelle Goodrich, Director of Operations, University City Partners After more than 25 years of living in the "suburbs" of University City and over 16 years working with University City Partners, I’ve seen our community grow in ways that still amaze me. I’ve...

Honoring Shane Hockensmith and Giant University Bikes – A Legacy of Movement in University City

For over 27 years, Giant University City has been more than a neighborhood bike shop—it has been a trusted resource and gathering place for University City’s active and diverse community. At the heart of it all has been Shane Hockensmith, a dedicated small business...

Building a Business Ecosystem: How UCP is Fueling Small Business Growth in University City

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,...

University City Farmers Market Kicks Off the 2025 Season!

University City Farmers Market returns for another exciting season — bringing farm-fresh goods, artisan products, and vibrant community spirit to the heart of University City! Join us every Saturday from May through October, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, at NOVEL University...

Vanguard: Making a Difference

A new hub focused on financial empowerment has opened in Charlotte, offering residents in underserved communities, tools and support to help break the cycle of poverty. The Charlotte Area Fund in southeast Charlotte has been selected as the city's first site for a...