Grounds for Connection

Grounds for Connection is a recurring coffee hour held on the fourth Friday of every month (check modified dates for November and December!) at the Innovate Carolina Junction—bringing together local professionals, entrepreneurs, and community members over fresh coffee and conversation. Hosted in partnership with The Chamber, Edward Jones, and our local business community, this casual gathering is designed to spark connections among small businesses, Chamber members, and coworking and community members.

Stop by, grab a free cup of Meantime coffee, and connect with others shaping our local business community. Come for the coffee—stay for the connections.

Who Are We?

Innovate Carolina Junction is a downtown Chapel Hill coworking and innovation space that brings together entrepreneurs, startups, and university resources to support collaboration and business growth.

The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro has helped connect local leaders with the networks, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed for over 80 years. They offer personalized support to help businesses navigate challenges, build meaningful community relationships, and contribute to a thriving local economy.

Edward Jones is a financial services firm that primarily serves business owners and individual investors, focusing on long-term strategies designed to help people reach their financial and life goals. Financial Advisor Lili Engelhardt works closely with entrepreneurs and executives, helping them with exit and succession planning, business and personal retirement plans, and wealth management.

Meantime Coffee s a student-run coffee shop at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that serves as both a café and a hands-on learning lab where students gain real-world experience in running a business while building community on campus.