The Wake Forest University Center for Private Business empowers privately held companies across North Carolina to thrive. Their mission is to help businesses, families, employees, communities and stakeholders succeed by providing access to education, industry expertise, trusted peer groups and a statewide network of leaders.
The Center for Private Business delivers monthly programming on six essential areas of business success: succession planning, governance, company culture, strategic planning, family harmony and leadership development. Members also benefit from confidential Business Leader Forum groups and complimentary access for all employees to their programs.
Read on for our Q&A with WNC Market Manager Scott Fowler…
Tell us about your organization
We are proud to serve more than 200+ member companies across the state. Our Opportunity Fund extends support to under-resourced business owners by making membership more accessible and reinvesting in the growth of future members.
In Western North Carolina, I lead our outreach and engagement efforts. A lifelong resident of the region, I work closely with business leaders from Asheville to Boone and beyond, connecting them to the Center’s resources, relationships and opportunities that foster long-term success.
Where did your vision begin? How has it grown?
Our vision began over 20 years ago with a simple goal: to help privately held and family-owned businesses succeed through education, peer support, and trusted networks. Over the years, we’ve grown into a statewide community of more than 200 companies spanning diverse industries and regions. In 2025, we expanded into Asheville and Western North Carolina to better serve this dynamic region and its entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What made you choose the Asheville area?
Asheville and Western North Carolina are home to a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit rooted in resilience, Asheville and Western North Carolina are home to a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit rooted in resilience, creativity, and innovation. Family-owned and privately held businesses are the backbone of the region’s economy, from craft breweries to tech startups to generational manufacturers. We chose this area to connect local leaders with statewide resources while celebrating the unique strengths and mountain culture of this community.
Who are your key partners?
Our members are our greatest partners, sharing time and expertise through forums and programs that drive real business results. The Asheville Chamber of Commerce and the University of North Carolina-Asheville are critical to our expansion in Asheville, providing local insights and connections. We also collaborate with the Wake Forest University School of Business to bring valuable academic research and insights to the table. In addition, sponsors and community organizations play an essential role in strengthening our reach and amplifying our impact across the region.
What has been your greatest challenge? Your greatest victory?
Our biggest challenge has been creating meaningful connections across such a wide and geographically diverse state with varying business climates. Yet, that challenge has also led to our greatest victory: witnessing remarkable collaboration when leaders from very different industries and backgrounds come together to solve problems and share successes. We’ve seen coastal tourism operators advising mountain manufacturers, and urban tech leaders mentoring rural family businesses.
What is a little-known fact about your organization?
Although aligned with Wake Forest University’s prestigious business school, we are independently funded and fully member-driven through dues and sponsorships. This unique structure allows us to stay laser-focused on the specific needs of privately held businesses without academic bureaucracy. At the same time, our members benefit from the expertise and cutting-edge research of a nationally recognized business school.
If you had to give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be?
Start by investing deeply in relationships rather than just chasing transactions or quick wins. A trusted circle of peers and mentors can provide support, perspective, and opportunities you simply can’t find on your own or through consultants. Business success grows strongest in community, not isolation.
What does the word “community” mean to you?
Community is the collective strength that comes from working together toward a shared purpose beyond individual gain. It’s about authentic connection, generous collaboration, and mutual support across industries, generations, and competitive lines. For us, it means building sustainable prosperity that benefits not only businesses and their owners, but also employees, families and the places we call home.