Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: How did Wilmington’s startups surpass $1 billion in funding?

Coming up on the Wilmington Patch calendar: Key Ceremony for Marine Cpl Dominic Davila

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Saturday September 26th Patch AM
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Hello again Wilmington! We're bringing you the latest town highlights. Don't miss out, keep going! ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • How did Wilmington's startups surpass $1 billion in funding?
  • How will a $3 million grant change ILM's operations?
  • Which Wilmington streets could flood during tonight's coastal advisory?

Also on today's calendar: Key Ceremony for Marine Cpl Dominic Davila and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Riddle: David's parents have three sons: Snap, Crackle, and what's the name of the third son? 🤔 (Answer below!)

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Weather forecast:

  • Saturday: Pleasant with plenty of sun, with a high of 80 and low of 52 degrees.
  • Sunday: Mostly sunny and pleasant, temps: high: 80, low: 55.
  • Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high of 82 and low of 61 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Startups on the beach; Event highlights Wilmington growth (businessnc.com) — Wilmington's startup scene is surging, with more than 300 investors and founders gathering at Cape Fear Community College for the recent "Startup Buzz" event. A new report now ranks Wilmington among the world's notable startup hubs, highlighting fintech leaders like Live Oak Bank and nCino, emerging blue-tech ventures, and strong innovation scores for New Hanover County.
   

2. Wilmington International Airport awarded $3 million FAA grant for apron expansion (wcti12.com) — Wilmington International Airport is getting a $3 million federal grant to expand its aircraft apron, improving where planes park and are serviced. The project is part of a broader $84.4 million FAA investment and is meant to modernize facilities, boost safety, and support more efficient air travel for Wilmington-area passengers and airlines.
   

3. Coastal Flood Advisory issued September 25 at 8:32PM EDT until September 26 at 12:00AM EDT by NWS Wilmington NC (980waav.com) — A coastal flood advisory is in effect tonight for inland New Hanover County, including downtown Wilmington and the lower Cape Fear River, with minor flooding up to half a foot possible. Parts of Battleship Road, the USS North Carolina access road, and a block of Water Street may see shallow flooding, so allow extra travel time and avoid driving through barricades or standing water.
   

4. Emtec at the AATCC Summit 2026 (textile-network.com) — Wilmington will host the AATCC International Summit 2026 on October 5–6, drawing textile experts to discuss testing, comfort, sustainability, AI, and innovation. Attendees will hear from consultant Harrie Schoots on digitizing fabric "hand feel" and join a panel exploring how data-driven tools can replace subjective judgments in textile design and quality control.
   

5. Nearly $100,000 of stolen property recovered leads to Wilmington arrest (wwaytv3.com) — A Wilmington man has been arrested after Brunswick County deputies recovered nearly $100,000 in stolen jet skis, trailers, and other property. Investigators used license plate reader technology and multiple search warrants across two counties to track down the items, and say additional charges connected to the case are still pending.
   

📸 Around Wilmington

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Wilmington

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • After the brutal heat and drenching rains of the summer, I've decided to stick with colorful coleus for fall.
    I had to throw out soaked echinacea and dried up begonia and even herbs. I hope the Fall will allow this color to thrive. Good luck gardening… (Nextdoor Old Wilmington)
  • So generally what do people use to get rid of voles/moles.
    Is there a particular product that works well? (Nextdoor Quail Woods)
  • Mondelez International posted a job opening for Full-time Nabisco Merchandiser/Order Writer in Wilmington. Apply here.
  • Sam's Club posted a job opening for Cafe Associate in Wilmington. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Wilmington here.

Ok Wilmington! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: David (Thank you Thomas F. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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