Greensboro native and Olympic champion Joey Cheek brings his expertise to support local entrepreneurs
Greensboro, North Carolina, is set to benefit from the expertise of Olympic champion Joey Cheek, who has been appointed as the Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. Cheek, a Dudley High School alumni, has spent the past decade immersed in the tech and startup worlds, working with Fortune 100 companies. Now, he is returning to his hometown with a mission to support and elevate the local entrepreneurial community.
A Champion’s Journey from the Olympics to Tech Startups
In 2021, Cheek made the decision to bring his wealth of knowledge and experience back to his hometown of Greensboro, North Carolina. Accompanied by his wife and son, he returned to the place that shaped him, ready to make a lasting impact on the local entrepreneurial community. The announcement of his appointment as the Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce is a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his commitment to giving back to the community that has always held a special place in his heart.
Cheek’s journey from Olympic champion to tech entrepreneur is a testament to his determination and adaptability. After his remarkable success as a speed skater, he could have easily rested on his laurels and enjoyed the fruits of his athletic achievements. However, Cheek recognized that his skills and mindset could be applied in other areas, particularly in the fast-paced world of startups.
His transition into the tech and startup industry was not without its challenges. Cheek had to immerse himself in a completely different environment, learning the ins and outs of technology and business. However, his passion for innovation and his natural curiosity propelled him forward, enabling him to quickly grasp the intricacies of the industry.
Working with Fortune 100 companies provided Cheek with invaluable insights into the inner workings of successful businesses. He witnessed firsthand the strategies and practices that allowed these companies to thrive and grow. This exposure to the corporate world gave him a unique perspective on the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and startups, as well as the opportunities that lay ahead.
Now, as the Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Cheek is in a position to make a real difference in his hometown. His goal is to support and elevate the local entrepreneurial community, providing them with the resources, guidance, and connections they need to succeed. With his extensive network and expertise, Cheek is well-equipped to create an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth.
Cheek’s decision to return to Greensboro is not only a testament to his love for his hometown but also a reflection of his belief in the potential of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. He understands that by nurturing and empowering local entrepreneurs, Greensboro can become a hub of innovation and economic growth. With his leadership and vision, Cheek is poised to transform the landscape of entrepreneurship in Greensboro, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
A Homecoming and a New Role
In 2021, after years of success in the sports and tech industries, Joey Cheek made the heartfelt decision to move back to his hometown of Greensboro. Accompanied by his wife and son, Cheek’s return to Greensboro signifies a deep-rooted connection and a desire to contribute to the community that played a pivotal role in shaping him. The announcement of his appointment as the Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce is not only a significant milestone in his career but also a testament to his dedication to giving back.
As the Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship, Cheek is poised to enhance the existing entrepreneurship programs offered by the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. Drawing from his extensive background in both sports and the tech industry, Cheek brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. He understands the challenges faced by entrepreneurs firsthand and is committed to creating an ecosystem that supports and uplifts startups in Greensboro.
One of Cheek’s primary goals is to collaborate with local colleges and universities to retain talent in the area. By forging strong partnerships with educational institutions, he aims to create pathways for students to stay in Greensboro and contribute to its growing entrepreneurial landscape. Cheek recognizes the importance of nurturing local talent and believes that by providing them with the necessary resources and support, Greensboro can become a hub for innovation and economic growth.
In addition to talent retention, Cheek is determined to foster a supportive environment for startups in Greensboro. He plans to build an infrastructure that empowers entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. Drawing from his own experiences as a successful entrepreneur, Cheek understands the unique challenges faced by startups and aims to create programs and initiatives that address these hurdles head-on.
Cheek’s vision for Greensboro is ambitious yet attainable. By leveraging his firsthand experience and expertise, he hopes to create a thriving startup community that not only attracts outside investment but also cultivates local talent and fosters a culture of innovation. Through strategic collaborations, mentorship programs, and access to resources, Cheek envisions a future where Greensboro becomes synonymous with entrepreneurship and serves as a model for other cities looking to create a supportive ecosystem for startups.
In
, Joey Cheek’s decision to return to Greensboro and take on the role of Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce is a testament to his deep-rooted connection to the community. With a focus on talent retention and creating a supportive ecosystem for startups, Cheek aims to leverage his expertise and firsthand experience to empower and uplift the entrepreneurial community in Greensboro. Through strategic collaborations, mentorship programs, and the creation of a robust infrastructure, Cheek envisions a future where Greensboro becomes a thriving hub for innovation and economic growth.
Elevating Entrepreneurship in Greensboro
Launch Greensboro, a program initiated by the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, will serve as a cornerstone in Cheek’s comprehensive strategy to support local entrepreneurs. With his visionary leadership, the program is set to undergo significant expansion and transformation. Cheek recognizes the importance of providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance to navigate the complex challenges of starting and growing a business. Under his guidance, Launch Greensboro will become a hub of innovation and entrepreneurial excellence, offering a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of each entrepreneur.
One of Cheek’s primary objectives is to forge strategic partnerships with colleges and universities in the area. By collaborating with these institutions, he aims to tap into the wealth of talent and ideas that exist within the student population. Through internship programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, Cheek plans to create a pipeline that nurtures and retains local talent, ultimately fueling the growth of the startup ecosystem in Greensboro.
In addition to fostering collaboration with educational institutions, Cheek intends to leverage his own experience as a successful entrepreneur to build an infrastructure that empowers and uplifts the startup community. Drawing from his firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, he envisions the development of targeted programs that address specific pain points and provide practical solutions. Whether it’s access to funding, networking opportunities, or guidance on scaling a business, Cheek aims to ensure that entrepreneurs in Greensboro have the support they need to thrive.
Furthermore, Cheek recognizes that entrepreneurship is not limited to a specific industry or demographic. He is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the startup community. By actively seeking out underrepresented groups and providing them with tailored resources and support, Cheek aims to create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish regardless of background or circumstances. This commitment to inclusivity extends to all aspects of Launch Greensboro, from its leadership team to the entrepreneurs it serves.
Ultimately, Cheek’s vision for Launch Greensboro is rooted in the belief that a thriving startup ecosystem is vital to the economic growth and prosperity of Greensboro as a whole. By providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed, he aims to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that will attract investment, create jobs, and drive the city’s economic development. With Cheek at the helm, Launch Greensboro is poised to become a beacon of entrepreneurial excellence, paving the way for a brighter future for Greensboro’s startup community.
Launch Greensboro and the Future of Entrepreneurship
Launch Greensboro, a program initiated by the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, will play a crucial role in Cheek’s efforts to support local entrepreneurs. Under Cheek’s leadership, the program will undergo a comprehensive revamp to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with even more resources, mentorship, and guidance. Recognizing that starting and growing a business can be a daunting task, Cheek is determined to ensure that Launch Greensboro becomes a one-stop hub for all the support and assistance entrepreneurs need.
One of the key areas of focus for Cheek is to enhance the educational component of Launch Greensboro. He believes that knowledge is power, and by providing entrepreneurs with access to workshops, seminars, and training programs, they will be equipped with the skills and expertise necessary to succeed. These educational opportunities will cover a wide range of topics, including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and legal considerations. Additionally, Cheek plans to collaborate with colleges and universities in the area to offer specialized courses and certificate programs tailored to the needs of aspiring entrepreneurs.
In addition to educational resources, Cheek recognizes the importance of mentorship in the entrepreneurial journey. Launch Greensboro will establish a robust mentorship program, connecting experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts with aspiring business owners. These mentors will provide guidance, share their own experiences, and help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges they may face along the way. Cheek understands that having a mentor can be instrumental in building confidence, expanding networks, and making informed decisions, and he is committed to fostering these valuable relationships within the Greensboro startup community.
Furthermore, Cheek plans to expand the network of support services available through Launch Greensboro. This includes forging partnerships with local service providers, such as legal firms, accounting agencies, and marketing agencies, who can offer discounted or pro bono services to entrepreneurs. By alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with starting a business, Cheek aims to create a more accessible and inclusive environment for aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds.
To ensure the long-term success and sustainability of Launch Greensboro, Cheek is also focused on securing funding and investment opportunities for local startups. He plans to establish connections with angel investors, venture capitalists, and other funding sources to provide entrepreneurs with the necessary capital to turn their ideas into reality. Additionally, Cheek will work closely with local banks and financial institutions to develop innovative financing options tailored to the needs of startups.
Through these comprehensive enhancements to Launch Greensboro, Cheek aims to create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish and contribute to the economic growth of Greensboro. He envisions a vibrant startup ecosystem that attracts and retains local talent, fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing, and ultimately positions Greensboro as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. With Cheek’s leadership and the continued support of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Launch Greensboro will be a catalyst for economic development, job creation, and community prosperity.
A Vision for Success
Joey Cheek’s appointment as the EVP of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce is a significant milestone in his ongoing efforts to foster entrepreneurship and drive economic development in his hometown. With his unique combination of athletic achievement, tech expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit, Cheek brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Greensboro community.
Having achieved Olympic success as a speed skater, Cheek understands the importance of discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting. These qualities, combined with his passion for technology and innovation, make him a valuable asset in supporting and guiding aspiring entrepreneurs. Cheek’s appointment signifies the Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and succeed.
Under Cheek’s leadership, the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. Launch Greensboro, a program initiated by the Chamber, will play a crucial role in this endeavor. By bolstering Launch Greensboro, Cheek envisions a vibrant startup ecosystem where innovative ideas can flourish and contribute to the economic growth of Greensboro.
In addition to his role at the Chamber of Commerce, Cheek’s own entrepreneurial journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. His transition from Olympic champion to tech entrepreneur demonstrates that with determination and the right support, anything is possible. Cheek’s success story serves as a reminder that the Greensboro community has the potential to foster and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit within its midst.
In
, Joey Cheek’s appointment as the EVP of Entrepreneurship for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce is a testament to his dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and economic development in his hometown. With his unique combination of athletic achievement, tech expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit, Cheek is well-positioned to create an environment where aspiring entrepreneurs can thrive and succeed. Through programs like Launch Greensboro, the community can look forward to a future filled with innovation, economic growth, and a thriving startup ecosystem. Joey Cheek’s success story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding them that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.
