Nussbaum Center businesses on pace for $67.1 million in 2026 revenue

Small businesses supported by the Nussbaum Center for Entrepreneurship reported strong midyear gains and are projected to generate about $67.1 million in gross revenue in 2026. The results also point to nearly $27.9 million in annualized payroll and 216 full-time employees at midyear across the Center’s portfolio.

Why it matters: - Nussbaum Center-supported businesses are showing measurable growth in revenue, payroll and hiring. - The forecast suggests the Center’s entrepreneurs are contributing more money and jobs to the Piedmont Triad economy. - The results also underscore the role of affordable space and business support in helping small companies scale.

What happened: - Small businesses supported by the Nussbaum Center for Entrepreneurship are projected to generate about $67.1 million in gross revenue in 2026. - The forecast is based on financial results reported through June 30 and uses a straight-line annualization of first-half performance. - Participating businesses reported $33.6 million in gross revenue in the first six months of 2026. - The same reporting shows about $13.9 million in gross payroll through the second quarter. - The businesses reported 216 full-time W-2 employees at midyear. - The companies reported a net increase of 166 employees since the prior quarter.

The details: - If first-half revenue pace continues, the companies will nearly double their midyear total by year-end. - Annualized payroll at the first-half pace points to about $27.9 million in 2026. - The payroll growth represents income that circulates through households, neighborhoods and businesses across the Piedmont Triad. - Reported results span construction, logistics, technology, health care, professional services and consumer products. - The forecast reflects aggregate, self-reported financial and employment data from Nussbaum Center associate businesses for January through June 2026. - Revenue and payroll projections are directional, are not audited financial results and may change with second-half performance, reporting participation and business conditions. - The Nussbaum Center for Entrepreneurship provides affordable, flexible space, technical assistance, connections and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow and create jobs. - The Center is based in Greensboro, North Carolina, and focuses on inclusive economic growth and measurable community impact.

Between the lines: - The numbers suggest the Center is producing more than startup support; it is helping businesses move into a scale-up phase. - The mix of industries points to a broad entrepreneurial base rather than growth concentrated in one sector. - Hazlett said the results show what happens when entrepreneurs have access to affordable space, practical guidance and a community committed to their success. - Hazlett also said the Center is focused on helping businesses finish 2026 strong.

What's next: - Second-half performance will determine whether the projected revenue and payroll totals hold through year-end. - Hiring could shift in the back half of the year as businesses adjust to cash flow, market expansion and other growth pressures. - The Center will continue supporting businesses with space, technical assistance and business resources as companies navigate growth challenges. - The final outcome will depend on reporting participation and broader business conditions.