Mel Wright

Spotlight on Mel Wright – A Changemaker in Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Introduction

Mel Wright is the founder of The Wright Village, a co-incubator and culture hub redefining what accessible entrepreneurship looks like in Raleigh, NC. As an Army veteran, multi-time founder, and community-centered ecosystem builder, Mel has created a space where culture, collaboration, and business growth converge. Her work continues to shape a more equitable pathway for emerging entrepreneurs across the Triangle.

Background & Bio

Driven by her own experiences navigating entrepreneurship without a strong support system, Mel built The Wright Village to be the kind of community she once needed. What began as a 1,500-sqft vision has grown into a thriving 7,000-sqft collaborative hub that blends flexible coworking, curated programming, education, and cultural connection. Through business coaching, technical assistance, workshops, and partnerships, Mel has positioned The Wright Village as a meaningful launchpad for underrepresented founders seeking not just space, but belonging.

Notable Achievements

Built a community-focused co-incubator that expanded from 1,500 sqft to 7,000 sqft, offering coworking, programming, and cultural events for entrepreneurs across Raleigh and the greater Triangle.

Launched accessible entrepreneurship programs—including Business 101 and the Sustainable Business Incubator—while securing ecosystem investment to strengthen and scale support for Black, Brown, and underestimated founders.

Community Impact

Mel’s work has broadened access to business resources for early-stage and overlooked entrepreneurs, creating a pipeline of empowered founders who now have spaces to learn, collaborate, and grow. Through ongoing events, coaching, and partnerships, she has helped build a more connected, informed, and culturally vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the RDU region.

Closing Statement

Mel continues to champion a future where every founder—regardless of background—has the confidence, tools, and community support to build sustainable businesses, jobs, and skillsets. Her leadership remains a powerful inspiration to anyone committed to expanding economic opportunity and elevating diverse voices in entrepreneurship.

Follow Mel Wright on Instagram: @thewrightvillagerdu