Startup TNT Associate Program - Spring 2026Â
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 the CED office (600 Park Offices Drive, RTP, NC 27709).Â
- Current enrollment at a college or university.
- Personal computer that can be used at work.
- This is a paid Associate Program for undergraduate and graduate students.Â
Fall 2025 Applications
Please note: We are not recruiting for all roles for Spring 2026, as many positions filled in Fall 2025 are 1-year commitments. If you are interested in opportunities beyond those we currently have applications for, please be on the lookout for Fall 2026 openings. You can indicate your interest now using our Fall 2026 interest form.
Rotational
- 3 positions available
- Undergraduate students in the early stages of exploring careers in entrepreneurship
- 1 semester – Spring 2026 (Jan 19 – April 17)
The Startup TNT Associate – Rotational rotates through key areas – startups, VC, business development, Board engagement – to gain broad exposure to CED’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
GRO Incubator Extern
- 1 position available
- Graduate students or upper-level undergraduates eager to gain firsthand startup experience
- 1 semester – Spring/Summer 2026 (March 30 – June 26)
- Requires availability Tues & Thurs 4:30-6:30pmÂ
The Startup TNT Extern Associate – GRO Incubator works directly with our incubator startup founders on real-time projects, providing hands-on support and gaining firsthand startup experience.
