Greenville’s tech community thrives when more people have access to pathways into learning, building, and growing. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Bletchley Institute and Clarke College into the StartupGVL community.
These organizations bring new approaches to hands-on learning and early career exploration, adding to the strong foundation already built by groups across the region.
Many people in Greenville know the name Peter Barth. His work with The Iron Yard helped introduce countless learners and founders to the tech world and contributed to Greenville’s momentum as an emerging innovation hub. His newest efforts — Bletchley Institute and Clarke College — carry forward that same spirit of accessibility and community-driven learning.
Inside Bletchley Commons
Bletchley Institute recently opened Bletchley Commons inside the Next Innovation Center, a coworking and co-learning space designed for a mix of students, early career talent, and working professionals. They’re right across the hall from our friends, NextGEN.
It’s a space where different generations of learners and builders can work side-by-side. The mix is intentional, and it creates natural opportunities for mentoring, inspiration, and collaboration.
Bletchley Commons features hot desks, collaboration areas, a few private offices, and flexible event space.
The team is also hosting free classes on AI, coding, data, and game development, plus informal events like game nights. These programs are built with support from experienced educators and contributors from companies like Pathwright and Vercel.
They’re designed to make tech approachable and to spark interest early, complementing the great work already happening across the region to build and grow tech talent.
Alongside the Commons, Bletchley Institute is launching the Bletchley Fellowship and Clarke College, both built around a work-integrated model that blends learning with real-world experience.
These programs offer an additional pathway for students exploring whether traditional college is the right fit. For employers and founders, they create new opportunities to connect with emerging talent through apprenticeships and hands-on projects.
StartupGVL is strengthened by partners who are committed to experimenting, teaching, and helping people find their place in the innovation economy. Bletchley Institute and Clarke College add to that effort by creating more entry points for learners and future founders.
If you’re curious, stop by Bletchley Commons, attend a class, share the programs with a student, or simply connect with the team. These small steps are what help communities grow.
We’re excited to welcome Bletchley Institute and Clarke College into the StartupGVL community and look forward to seeing how they contribute to the broader ecosystem.