Scale & Push Growth
Stage Incubator
Durham's First VC-Backed Accelerator Program
"We believe in the power of putting real money into the hands of local entrepreneurs...We don't believe in coaching without capital—money must meet coaching."
—Talib Graves-Manns, Founder of Knox St. Studios.
About the Incubator
The Scale & Push Growth Stage Incubator represents a groundbreaking approach to entrepreneurship support—where coaching meets capital in Durham's most comprehensive business incubator program. This intensive 10-week program was designed specifically for growth-stage businesses ready to scale with significant capital investment.
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Unlike traditional incubators, Scale & Push participants received direct coaching from VC & Private Equity fund managers who power the program, providing unprecedented access to capital expertise. The program culminated in a $25,000 direct reinvestment into Durham's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with each of the five graduating entrepreneurs receiving a $5,000 grant to fuel their continued growth.
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"We believe in the power of putting real money into the hands of local entrepreneurs," said Talib Graves-Manns, Founder of Knox St. Studios. "We don't believe in coaching without capital—money must meet coaching."
The program focused on retail, consumer packaged goods, technology, and tech-enabled ventures, targeting businesses with proven revenue streams and diverse leadership representation. This wasn't just business development—it was community investment in action.
Our Partners
Knox St. Studios (Lead Partner)
Knox St. Studios served as the program leader, bringing years of experience in supporting diverse entrepreneurs through comprehensive business development programs, digital workforce training, and access to capital. Our organization specializes in creating pathways to sustainable business growth while building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems.
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Wocstar Capital
Wocstar Capital provided the venture capital expertise and investment philosophy that made this program unique. Focused on investing in often ‘overlooked’ entrepreneurs, Wocstar brought both capital knowledge, story-telling and strategic guidance essential for helping businesses scale successfully. Their commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship transformed how participants approached fundraising and growth strategy.
Durham County
Durham County's generous support made the Scale & Push program possible, reflecting the county's commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success and economic development. Their investment demonstrated how public-private partnerships can create tangible economic opportunities for local business owners.
NC IDEA
NC IDEA's partnership was instrumental in making direct capital investment possible. As North Carolina's entrepreneurial ecosystem builder and grant maker, NC IDEA's support validated the program's approach and connected participants to the broader statewide network of resources and opportunities.
The Process
1. Mentoring & Strategic Guidance
Each participant received individualized coaching from industry experts and VC fund managers, focusing on financial readiness preparation, strategic planning, and scaling strategies tailored to their specific industry and growth trajectory. The mentoring component included comprehensive business development training and access to capital market insights typically reserved for high-level investment circles.
Program Timeline
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Launch
May 2025
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Duration
10 weeks (May - July 2025)
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Graduation Celebration
September 8, 2025
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Final Coaching Sessions
September - October 2025
Our Graduating Entrepreneurs
Jabin Beverage Company
Founder: Homayoon Ershadi
A innovative beverage company focused on creating unique drink experiences for the modern consumer market.
Coworks
Founder: Deshawn Brown
A technology-enabled workspace solution addressing the evolving needs of remote and hybrid work environments.
PeaceFULL
Founder: Danyell Miller
PeaceFULL is a multi-dimensional, digital wellness platform for mothers.
Looks AI
Founder: Jessica Couch
Looks Ai, a peer-to-peer fashion discovery engine that leverages personalization and consumer insights to improve how people engage with fashion and retail technology.
Burdock Naturals
Founder: John Deberry
A natural products company committed to creating organic, chemical-free solutions for healthier living.
Celebrating Success
The Scale & Push program concluded with the "Scale & Celebrate" event on September 8, 2025, at The Durham Hotel. This elegant evening wove together business achievement with Durham's vibrant creative culture, featuring live music, visual art, spoken word poetry, and a fireside chat with Dr. Shani Daily from Duke University and Gina Loften, Fortune 100 board director.
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The celebration represented more than individual business success—it demonstrated Durham's collective commitment to building an economy where everyone can thrive.
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"This represents Durham at its best—where business, culture, and community converge to create something truly transformative."
— Talib Graves-Manns, Founder, Knox St. Studios
The Scale & Push Growth Stage Incubator established a new model for entrepreneurship support in Durham—one that combines intensive business development with direct capital investment, creating lasting impact for both individual entrepreneurs and the broader community.