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GIG EAST
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Featured Partner: NC IDEA

Gig East is comprised of a wide network of members and partners who offer tools at all levels to help you succeed. From basic digital skills to harnessing the power of next-gen technology, we have something for everyone to discover.

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News

Photo of man in red shirt and hat in a field with plants. Text on the right side say "You're Invited!" Gig East Source Showcase 2026

From Soil to Sensors: Explore Gig East’s Source Showcase

By Shappelle Marshall Gig East’s inaugural Source Showcase offers a firsthand look at how technology and collaboration are transforming farming in Eastern North Carolina. Eastern North Carolina's growers, innovators, and…

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Growing Something New: The Matcha Pilot Sprouting at The Gig East Source

By Shappelle Marshall Daniel Lamm is betting that eastern North Carolina, and the right support system, could change what's possible for regional growers. Matcha has long been synonymous with Japan's…

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Wilson’s Smart Agriculture Test Bed moves from launch to active trials

By Shappelle Marshall Summary: Just months after opening its doors, Wilson's smart agriculture test bed is now hosting its first crop trials and proving out cutting-edge farming technologies in real-world…

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Gig East Exchange celebrates five years of connection

By Shappelle Marshall Summary: Five years after opening in the middle of a pandemic, the Gig East Exchange has become a cornerstone of Wilson’s innovation ecosystem. What began as a…

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Videos

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Gig East Exchange Virtual Tour

Join Ashley Harris, Community Exchange Coordinator for the Gig East Exchange, as she gives a tour of Wilson's newest coworking space.

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Encouraging Our Entrepreneurial Spirit

Our panel includes two experts in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and an entrepreneur who recently launched his company to great success, moderated by Barton College’s Dr. Gary Daynes. The panel discusses how to support the entrepreneurial spirit and possibilities of all, including how to encourage and develop minority entrepreneurial ventures. Framed through the struggles and opportunities present during a global pandemic, this lively discussion points out the essential skills needed to launch and sustain a business in a rapidly changing climate.

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Arts Forward: Emerging and Evolving Arts Organizations

Hear from three different North Carolina based arts organizations about how they are adapting to meet changing needs in their communities. From learning how Wilson Arts is “filling the gap” that changes over time, to how the North Carolina Arts Council ensures North Carolina’s traditional art forms are preserved, to how the Visual Art Exchange uses art to build trust, this discussion provides an uplifting picture of the important role arts plays in society and culture.

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Seizing the Moment: Unrelenting Optimism for Rural America

Matt has spent his life – and his life’s work – in rural America. Matt says that rural America is “having a moment," during a global pandemic, and he holds a relentless optimism for rural America’s future. He sees opportunity in the ideals that tech can happen in rural America, broadband can be done really well in rural America, and the diversity of rural America empowers all people.

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Business Resources

From mailboxes to networking opportunities, the Exchange offers support for businesses of every size. Stop by today to see how we can help your business grow.
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Our Partners

RIoT

RIoT, the North Carolina-based economic development nonprofit, works with early stage startups as they disrupt the status quo and advance emerging technologies.

Up and coming ventures from Eastern NC and beyond can participate in a 12-week intensive business program where RAP heavily coaches companies through market validation, product development, and go to market strategy, and connects them to more than 75 business and technology advisors. The culminating RAP Wilson Pitch Competition is held annually during the Gig East Summit.

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Capitol B

Capitol B, a longtime partner of Gig East and the City of Wilson, offers business development services and creative assets exclusively to Gig East Exchange members.

Capitol B partners with Gig East to provide monthly consultative hours for members, offering guidance, producing profile videos, and delivering hands-on support.

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Greenlight Community Broadband

Greenlight Community Broadband is Wilson’s community owned, gigabit fiber-optic internet provider, delivering reliable, lightning-fast connectivity to residents and businesses. As the first community-owned fiber network in North Carolina, Greenlight is committed to driving innovation, economic growth, and digital equity. With unmatched speed and customer service, Greenlight empowers entrepreneurs, remote workers, and tech-driven businesses at Gig East and beyond.

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City of Wilson

Wilson, North Carolina, is a thriving city where innovation meets community. Known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and entrepreneurial spirit, Wilson is home to forward-thinking initiatives like Greenlight Community Broadband and Gig East. With a strong commitment to economic growth, technology, and quality of life, Wilson is a hub for creators, startups, and businesses looking to connect and grow. Click here to learn more about the City of Wilson.

Photo of a Greenlight Wifi sign in Wilson, NC
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