2025 Sandhills Entrepreneur Summit

Join us for the 2025 Sandhills Entrepreneur Summit taking place on Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 9:00am - 5:00pm at The Fair Barn in Pinehurst, NC.

The Sandhills Entrepreneur Summit will be a full day of inspiration, innovation, and connection designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and resources needed to build a successful business.

At the Summit, you'll:

• Participate in expert-led workshops on AI, market validation, & goal setting
• Learn how to tap into resources of the expansive NC entrepreneurship ecosystem
• Engage in discussions with support organizations & service providers
• Be inspired by startup success stories
• Network with forward-thinking entrepreneurs, support organizations, & service providers

You'll even want to bring your laptop or tablet so you can participate in the interactive workshop using AI tools. Don't miss this chance to learn, connect, and access resources to build & grow your business!

Pre-registration is required & seating is limited to the first 200 registrants. $25 Early Bird registration through October 15th. Fee is $30 after October 15th. The fee covers food & beverages. Registration is open through November 7th.

Info: Check in, receive summit materials, and network over coffee.

Info: Natalie Hawkins, President of Moore Co Economic Development Partnership, will kick off the day & review the summit agenda.

Info: The next great business could be born right here. Thom Ruhe, President & CEO of NC IDEA, will explain why NC is one of the nation’s leading hubs for entrepreneurship and explore the strengths of our innovation ecosystem. Learn how you can tap into resources to turn
big ideas into impact.

Info: Mingle with attendees, speakers, & entrepreneur support organizations.

Info: Hear from Rachael Newberry, Program Director at RIoT, about how to validate market demand for your business concept to reduce risk, save time & money, and cultivate a clear and confident path to customers.

Info: Enjoy lunch while speaker Hal Atkins, Owner of Companah, shares how he and his wife left their 9 to 5 jobs to create a thriving business.

Info: Dr. Sarah Glova, CEO of Reify Media, discusses how to create a clear, single-page plan for your big goals with her One-Page Plan, as featured in her acclaimed TEDx talk.

Info: Engage in small group discussions with professional service providers, entrepreneur support organizations, and successful entrepreneurs.

Info: Don Shin, Founder & CEO of CrossComm, will demonstrate ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools like Chat GPT, Claude, and Microsoft Copilot that can save you time and advance your business. Bring your laptop or tablet to participate in this interactive workshop.

Info: Expand your network while enjoying complimentary beverages.

Host or Publisher Moore County Economic Development Partnership