Furman University is creating entrepreneurs in Greenville, thanks to collaboration and partnership.

Representatives from the private liberal arts institution told members of the Greenville City Council this week that collaborative efforts are paying off, as Greenville builds its reputation as an entrepreneurial hub.

“People are feeling the momentum,” said Brian Davis, executive director of The Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the organization behind Furman’s entrepreneurial work. “They want to share and talk about the things that we’re doing.”

Beyond serving Furman students, The Hill Institute has community programs designed to create a startup and talent pipeline:

• GVL Starts – a nationally recognized 8-week accelerator program
• Summer Business and Innovation Boot Camp – 7-week course for college students
• Hill Hustle Awards – special events honoring milestones of program entrepreneurs
• Advantage Greenville – guest speakers and panel discussions open to the public

These programs align with four of the City of Greenville’s Economic Strategic goals: creating a best-in-class entrepreneurial ecosystem, attracting new investment, building and supporting a talent base of entrepreneurs, and ensuring a diversity of communities thrive across the City.