New business incubator ‘Cultural Grounds’ promotes diversity and growth

A new business incubator in downtown Washington, North Carolina, is making waves by promoting diversity and supporting local entrepreneurs. ‘Cultural Grounds,’ which opened on West Main Street a month ago, is more than just a retail space; it’s a hub for cultural exchange and business development.

“A lot of our people from the city of Washington travel to Raleigh, travel to Greenville. So to be able to bring it here to Washington, that’s a blessing,” said Donchiettia Taylor-Woodard, a business owner at Cultural Grounds.

Paula Snyder, another entrepreneur at the incubator, added, “I don’t feel like there’s a beach store in Washington. You go to the beach, you see those stores everywhere, but I wanted to bring that here.”

Cultural Grounds features seven small businesses, each with its own unique products, personality, and style. Customers can find contemporary décor, artwork, and even retro sneakers.

Local business owner Oliver Stevenson, who was born in Washington and returned four years ago to continue his entrepreneurial journey, spearheaded the development of Cultural Grounds. “This building encompasses everyone. That’s the vibe, that’s the move that we want everyone to be a part of it,” Stevenson said.

Stevenson saw a need for diversity and local businesses in the community, leading to the creation of Cultural Grounds. “The motto is where businesses are built from the ground up,” he said.

Snyder emphasized the incubator’s role in nurturing entrepreneurs, saying, “This is an incubator to help us grow and nurture us into whatever we want to do.”

Taylor-Woodard echoed the sentiment, stating, “It was a blessing, a straight blessing and we’re all trying to build. Trying to build our business, trying to build the community around the Washington area, and trying to make it way more diverse.”

Cultural Grounds is open to the public, offering a unique shopping experience while fostering community growth and diversity.