Launch Lab
Durham's Premier Early-Stage Accelerator
Next Cohort: Spring 2026
The Launch Lab Accelerator concluded with the "Scale & Celebrate Part II " event on November 20, 2025, at The Durham Hotel. This fun, and engaging event brought together our accelerator participants alongside members of Knox St. Studios other signature programs in Technical Certifications and Durham centered Commercial Real Estate ownership.
(From left to right)- Lee Gray Assoc. Dir, Knox St Studios, Jameya Jones (Gradual Concepts), Charryse Fredrick (NIA Educational Services), Sunny Su (PetPros), Melissa Wood (PetPros), Olivia LaPlaca (Olive the Chef), Keshia Barnette (Life in Balance Organizing Services LIBO), Michael Marsack (Martech Studios), Jerri Bland (Agent PMO)
"Watching these founders pitch Thursday night—after 12 weeks of customer discovery, pivots, and breakthroughs—I couldn't have been more proud. I learned alongside them every step of the way, and I'm grateful to have been part of their journey. They showed up, did the work, and proved exactly why we invest in Durham's entrepreneurs."
—Lee Gray, Knox St. Studios Associate Director
About Launch Lab
Launch Lab is Knox St Studios' flagship early-stage accelerator program designed for entrepreneurs ready to transform concepts into viable businesses. Through expert-led workshops, nationally recognized Icehouse entrepreneurship training, hands-on mentorship, and access to Durham's entrepreneurial ecosystem, participants gain the tools and support needed to launch successfully.
Over five cohorts, we've supported entrepreneurs across diverse industries—from technology and retail to services, to consulting and social enterprises. Participants work with stellar coaches who bring real-world experience in building, scaling, and growing businesses. The program culminates in a Demo Day presentation and a completion stipend to invest directly back into your venture.
Launch Lab provides structure, accountability, and community during the critical early stages of building a business. Whether you're validating an idea, developing your first product, or preparing to launch, this program meets you where you are and moves you forward with momentum.
Our Partners
Launch Lab is made possible through partnership with leading organizations committed to entrepreneurship and economic development in North Carolina.
Knox St. Studios (Lead Partner)
Durham's entrepreneurship hub providing space, programming, and connections to build and scale businesses.
American Underground
Professional Coworking space investing in Durham founders
Durham County
Investing in economic development and small business growth across our community.
NC IDEA
North Carolina's private foundation fueling entrepreneurial ambition through grants, programming, and ecosystem support.
The Process
Application & Selection
Complete our online application including a brief video introducing yourself and your business concept. We review applications on a rolling basis and invite selected applicants for short interviews. We're looking for entrepreneurs who are coachable, committed, and ready to engage with customers.
Program Timeline
Duration:
10-12 Weeks
Time Commitment:​
3-hour weekly sessions +
5-8 hours independent work
Format:
Hybrid format One week on one week off (in person-virtual)
Cohort Size:
Limited to 6-8 participants
Our Graduating Entrepreneurs
Launch Lab has supported five cohorts of Durham entrepreneurs across diverse industries and business models. Our graduates have gone on to secure funding, launch products and services, participate in additional accelerator programs, and become active contributors to Durham's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
More importantly, they've built the foundational skills, confidence, and networks needed to navigate the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship. Launch Lab alumni continue to support one another and give back to the program through mentorship and community engagement.
Join the next cohort and become part of Durham's growing community of Launch Lab entrepreneurs.
“The best part of Knox Street Studios Launch Lab was the sense of community—our small cohort has become a true support group that continues to meet beyond the program. Between Lee Gray’s guidance, the facilitators’ insight, and the financial support that followed, I walked away with both confidence and capacity to grow. This program didn’t just teach entrepreneurship—it built it.”
—Glenda Clare, Ph.D.
Frequently asked questions
Celebrating Success
Event Recap
APPLY
Ready to Launch?
Applications open in Spring 2026 for the next Launch Lab cohort. Spaces are limited to 6-8 entrepreneurs.
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Questions?
Contact Lee Gray
Associate Director, Knox St Studios
lee@knoxststudios.org