Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship
Accelerators & Incubator in Philadelphia, PA.
About
Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship is a premier business accelerator and incubator located in Philadelphia, PA, dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial ventures. Housed in the Pearlstein Business Learning Center at Drexel University, this program provides comprehensive resources, mentorship, and guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage startups. The school offers access to industry experts, networking opportunities, and business development tools designed to help founders transform their ideas into successful, scalable enterprises. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling an existing business, the Charles D. Close School equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge, connections, and support needed to navigate the competitive business landscape. Located in the vibrant Philadelphia entrepreneurial ecosystem, the school combines academic rigor with practical business experience, making it an ideal choice for serious founders seeking structured guidance and community-driven growth.
Program Details
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of startups does Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship support?
The school supports entrepreneurs across various industries and business stages, from early-stage concept development to growth-phase ventures. Whether you're in technology, services, manufacturing, or other sectors, the accelerator provides resources and mentorship tailored to different startup needs and business models.
What resources and support does the accelerator provide to entrepreneurs?
The Charles D. Close School offers comprehensive support including business mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, access to Drexel University's facilities and faculty expertise, networking opportunities with investors and business professionals, business planning assistance, and connections to funding sources to help startups succeed.
How does being located in Philadelphia benefit startups?
Philadelphia's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, home to numerous venture capital firms, corporate headquarters, and innovation centers, provides startups with excellent networking opportunities, access to funding, talent pools, and partnerships. The location also offers proximity to major East Coast markets and business hubs.
Is the Charles D. Close School only for Drexel University students?
While affiliated with Drexel University, the accelerator welcomes entrepreneurs from the broader Philadelphia community. You can contact the school directly through their website at drexel.edu/close/ to learn about eligibility requirements and application processes for your specific situation.
Last updated: March 9, 2026