Local Business Growth
Between 2010 and 2020, Raleigh saw a 25% increase in the number of small businesses, but 62% of them reported struggles with market visibility.
Source: Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, “Small Business Outlook” (2021)
Environmental Challenges
In its 2022 Sustainability Report, the City of Raleigh found that 40% of households remain unaware of composting or zero-waste initiatives.
Source: City of Raleigh Sustainability Department, “State of the Environment” (2022)
Community Involvement
A 2023 citywide survey revealed that 72% of residents would participate in more local events if they had better knowledge about them.
Source: Raleigh Community Engagement Office, “Annual Resident Outreach Survey” (2023)
Our Vision
Why I Started Curate
After moving from San Diego and spending the last six years surrounded by a community rooted in mindfulness and intentional living, I truly came to understand the power that emerges when people come together around a shared purpose. That energy — that sense of alignment — it stuck with me.
Curate has lived in my heart for a while now. But it wasn’t until I moved to North Carolina — with just a few belongings and a desire to start fresh — that the idea really started to take shape. As I tried to rebuild my space with intention, I was surprised by how hard it was to find everyday items that aligned with my values. Curtains, mattresses, rugs, kitchenware — you name it. Either the quality wasn’t there, the brand was greenwashing, or the price tag made it feel completely out of reach.
And when we shop online, chasing convenience or necessity, we often end up overlooking the businesses right around us — the local makers, growers, and curators doing it the right way. But what happens when those local options don’t exist, or they’re hard to find? What’s actually sustainable and affordable? What can we trust?
That’s when Curate became more than an idea — it became a mission. To help bridge that gap. To make it easier for people to live intentionally, without having to sacrifice quality, values, or connection to community.
At Curate, we believe in the power of a connected community. Our mission is to bring together local businesses, residents, and sustainability advocates to foster a stronger, healthier Raleigh and eventually North Carolina.
By providing a platform that showcases community resources, highlights impactful initiatives, and encourages collaboration, we aim to cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive—socially, economically, and ecologically.
LOOKING AT WHAT IS TO COME
We envision a future where Raleigh stands at the forefront of sustainable living, economic innovation, and community unity. Through Curate Raleigh’s evolving platform and partnerships, we will continue growing our resource directory, hosting inclusive events, and sharing inspiring stories. By joining our journey, you become part of a collective effort to shape the future of our beloved city, one local connection at a time.
Empowering Local Businesses
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
Building Social Connections
