A Once-in-a-Generation Project
SPARK - THE LOCATION
Spark Centro has closed on 8805 E. WT Harris Blvd, purchasing a nearly 9-acre site with tremendous potential for growth and expansion in the years to come. The primary building (above) is well-positioned to serve as the headquarters for Spark Centro. In total, the new Spark Centro facility will be 45,000+ sq. ft.
In addition, the J-shaped lot includes ample acreage for the future development to include retail and a potential conference and retreat center.
This project includes plans for the development of two outparcels on the property – one as a restaurant and the other as pop-up retail – with the goal of making this site a destination for residents and employees from across Mecklenburg County.
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR
INSIDE SPARK CENTRO
Entrepreneurship Hub
Providing entrepreneurs with a supportive ecosystem, offering coaching and workshops through partner organizations
Spark Centro Convening Hall
A large space for engagement and recruitment and destination for job fairs and training
Shop La Plaza Marketplace
A pop-up space hosting rotating spotlights on local entrepreneurship with nearby seating creating a social destination.
Center for Healthcare Development
A space that features health care workforce programming in partnership with local employers.
Center for STEM Workforce
A space focusing on “what’s next” for the business community, partnering to make tech a key feature.
BUSINESS AT SPARK
Tenant Service Providers
Four (4) anchor nonprofits providing direct services to 550 total participants + 10% annual increase
Visiting Service Providers
20-25 service providers to 750 total participants in workforce development, entrepreneurship & supportive programming + 10% annual increase
Corporate Partners
Countywide participation in recruitment events & employee resource group (ERG) activation + 10% annual increase
Resident Groups
350 annual participants in local meetings + 10% annual increase
Coworking
Growth aligned to revenue strategy + 10% growth
Other Visitors –
Across all programs, events and activations + 10% growth
Spark Centro aims to open in 2026 with an staffing and expense plan that will grow over the first five years of operations.
Staffing
Spark Centro will employ a chief administrator and team members specializing in marketing, partner and community relations, event management, facility management, and financial oversight. This team will ensure smooth operations, effective community engagement, and financial sustainability.
Facility Management Expenses
Core facility expenses include insurance, utilities, and trash removal, which are essential for maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for tenants and visitors alike.
Maintenance
Regular repair, replacement, and general maintenance will keep the facility in optimal condition, extending its lifespan and ensuring it remains a high-quality asset for the community.
Marketing & Community Engagement
Outreach efforts, digital marketing, and community-based events will help Spark Centro connect with residents and stakeholders, promoting its services and fostering a vibrant community presence.
DESTINATION ALBEMARLE ROAD CORRIDOR
Aligning to the Corridors of Opportunity
Spark Centro’s ideal location is Albemarle Road in East Charlotte, a Corridors of Opportunity priority area. This is a joint venture of the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.
This diverse corridor with 19% of its residents identifying as foreign born, representing over 60 countries of origin. This culturally-rich community is home to many Latino residents who have come to the region to work hard and achieve the American dream.
The project will result in both new construction and adaptive reuse for a wide variety of spaces including big box retail, warehouse and other facilities. It will also lead to significant development and redevelopment of residential property located in the Corridor. Helping diverse residents remain in their neighborhoods during this period of development is a priority goal for Spark Centro.
As a part of this public-private partnership, the Spark Centro effort is seeking the partnership of local municipalities and business leaders to work collaboratively to make the vision of a hub facility for Latino economic development a reality
