Are you an innovator, entrepreneur, or creative mind looking to take your ideas to the next level? Join us for Free Office Hours at Innovate Carolina Junction, where you’ll have access to a diverse array of subject matter experts ready to help you navigate the challenges of your journey. Whether you need guidance on creative projects, insights into emerging technologies, business strategy support, alumni mentorship, or legal advice, our experts are here to provide personalized, actionable feedback.

Connect with experienced professionals across various fields, gain fresh perspectives, and get the support you need to turn your vision into reality. No matter where you are in your journey, Innovate Carolina Junction is your hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth.

No registration required. In-person only.

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Joel Harper (available: Oct 1, Nov 5, Dec 10)

Joel Harper serves as regional director with the Small Business Development Technology Center, a no-cost, confidential small business counseling service​ affiliated with Kenan Flagler Business School and the Small Business Administration. Previously, Harper assisted small business owners as executive director of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce. Overall he has been helping business owners launch, grow and prosper for 20+ years. In his spare time, Harper enjoys growing vegetables and Dutch oven cooking.

Bill Rollinson (available: Sep 10, Oct 15, Nov 19)

Bill Rollinson is a General Business Counselor with the SBTDC (Small Business Technology Development Center). Before moving to North Carolina in 2020, he spent most of his career in Silicon Valley as an entrepreneur and product manager. He helped to create some of the first software for the Apple Macintosh in 1984 and co-founded the first online retailer on the web, Internet Shopping Network in 1994. He’s been involved in numerous start-ups as an operating executive, founder, investor, and board member. He received a Design degree from UCLA.

Liel Maala (available: Sep 24, Oct 29, Dec 3)

Liel graduated from Brigham Young University-Hawaii with a degree in Business Management and a minor in Accounting. He brings a wealth of experience working for a private organization for the past 10 years in capacities ranging from administrative, training, and management positions. His exposure to diverse settings having lived and worked in international areas has provided him rich insight and perspective. He is excited to be part of the SBTDC team and contribute to the center’s mission. Liel loves hiking and mountain biking in his free time.

Ask Joel, Bill, or Liel about:

Business Plan Development
Business Structure and Legal Considerations
Financial Planning and Projections
Funding and Capital Acquisition
Growth and Scaling Strategies

Sheila Dalton (available: Oct 8, Nov 12, Dec 17)

Sheila Dalton is a General Business Counselor for the Small Business Technology & Development Center, a collaboration between the Small Business Administration and the UNC System. She is the co-founder and previous owner of Neal’s Deli in Carrboro. She has 25+ years in small business, with extensive experience in the Triangle’s local food system. Dalton is an avid trail runner, a YA fiction fan, a trained cook, and a certified nutrition coach with a private practice. She lives in Carrboro with her two kids, one cat, and a loving community of friends.

Ask Sheila about:

Management & Operations
Restaurant Industry KPIs
Marketing & Branding
Working with Local Food Systems
Understanding Profit & Loss Statements

Lindsay Hinger (available: Sep 17, Oct 22, Nov 26)

Lindsay Hinger is an entrepreneur, Air Force Veteran, and business counselor. She is a two-time small business owner, and works as a Business Launch Specialist with the SBTDC. Lindsay is also a Board member of NC Vet Biz, and is a mentor to veterans and military spouses through American Corporate Partners (ACP).

Ask Lindsay about:

Lean Canvas Model
Customer Discovery
Entity Selection
Military Specific Resources
Business Plan Development