CSL sits at the nexus of entrepreneurship, racial equity, reentry, socio-economic mobility, and technology. As an entrepreneurial support organization (ESO), our work is not solely focused on enterprise deployment. Instead, we focus on empowering justice impacted individuals who have often been excluded from opportunities, to fully realize their entrepreneurial potential.
When these capabilities are cultivated and recognized, we can unlock individuals’ potential to become new business owners and value-added employees.
Since its inception in 2014, CSL HAS BEEN A CATALYST FOR DEVELOPING ENTREPRENEURIAL TALENT AND CAPACITY.
MISSION
To close the socio-economic mobility gap by consistently delivering leading-edge entrepreneurial education and workplace readiness training for a new class of justice-impacted entrepreneurs and value-added employees.
VISION
CSL envisions a future where entrepreneurship can be a tool for social capital, innovation, new ventures, purpose-driven work, resilience, wealth creation, and restorative justice.
Creating a New Class of Entrepreneurs & Value-added Employees
The ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) provides 21st Century workforce development through leading-edge entrepreneurial education and on-trend skills training for justice-impacted individuals.
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GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN ENTREPRENEUR?
REEP helps justice-impacted entrepreneurs build stable, sustainable businesses — with structure, coaching, and real accountability.
SHAPING THE FUTURE
As a returning citizen, don’t let your past define your future — start your path to self-sufficiency & professional development with the Restorative Pathways.
VOLUNTEER
City Startup Labs offers several opportunities to help tackle Charlotte’s wealth disparities and promote equity in the Charlotte community. Apply to become a partner in making a difference.
Restorative Pathways: Building Careers, Not Just Finding Jobs
Restorative Pathways is a free, full-time, trauma-informed workforce training initiative delivered by City Startup Labs — designed for justice-impacted adults who are motivated, committed, and serious about taking that next step on a career pathway.
We emphasize professionalism and workplace readiness, then build industry-specific skills while stacking job-ready credentials. Participants leave with certifications, employer connections, and the foundation to not only get a job, but to stay employed. Tuition-free. Industry certifications. Direct employer connections.
