Startup TNT

The Startup TNT Associate Program offers students paid, hands-on experience working with high-growth startups in the Triangle, providing insight into startup operations and opportunities to learn from industry leaders and alumni.

Startup TNT Associate Program - Fall 2026 

CED is committed to developing the next wave of talent for high-growth startups in our region. Our Startup TNT Associate Program offers paid roles where students gain hands-on experience and a close-up view of the startup ecosystem. You’ll learn how startups operate, what they need to thrive, and apply classroom knowledge to a fast-paced nonprofit. Our alumni network—former Associates and staff—are active leaders in the Triangle’s startup community, providing valuable mentorship and connections.

Compensation and Requirements

  • Availability to work 10 hours/week on a hybrid on-site/remote basis.
  • Tuesdays & Thursdays – mandatory in-person days.
  • Based in the Triangle with reliable transportation to work at CED's office (600 Park Offices Drive, RTP, NC 27709). 
  • Current enrollment at a college or university.
  • Personal computer that can be used at work.
  • This is a paid Associate Program ($18/hour) for undergraduate and graduate students. 

Fall 2026 Applications

Deadline to Apply: Thursday, July 9th at 10am ET

Please note: our roles vary per semester, based on our current needs. If none of our Fall 2026 roles feel like a good fit, we encourage you to fill out our Spring 2027 interest form. You'll be the first to know when our next cohort applications open up!

Marketing Associate

  • 1 positions available
  • 2 semesters | Fall 2026 & Spring 2027 (Aug 24–Nov 20; Jan 18–April 16)
  • Grad students or upper-level undergrads in marketing or communications

The Marketing Associate is a content-first role built for someone who lives in the creative space — fluent in social media, confident with video editing, and ready to turn a folder of event photos into a polished highlight reel. You'll create, edit, and publish across social media, short-form video, newsletters, and event promotion while helping shape the stories of RTP's entrepreneurship ecosystem.

APPLY HERE by July 9 at 10am ET!

Events Associate

  • 1 position available
  • 2 semesters | Fall 2026 & Spring 2027 (Aug 24–Nov 20; Jan 18–April 16)
  • Grad students or upper-level undergrads in hospitality, communications, business, or entrepreneurship

The Events Associate supports CED's programming through end-to-end event execution — from venue and vendor coordination to event tech, attendee experience, and on-site support. This is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience producing events of all sizes at the center of RTP's entrepreneurship ecosystem.

APPLY HERE by July 9 at 10am ET!