Envision Charlotte Innovation Barn

The Innovation Barn stands at the forefront of Circular Charlotte, a pioneering collaboration between Envision Charlotte and the City of Charlotte. This innovative venture aims to steer Charlotte toward a circular economy, and the barn serves as the epicenter for many entrepreneurial enterprises and zero-waste initiatives. This one-of-a-kind innovation center opened in 2021 and is the first in the United States wholly dedicated to advancing the circular economy transition. The City of Charlotte owns the building, while Envision Charlotte is responsible for managing, designing, and executing its multifaceted programs.  

The Innovation Barn, designed by Progressive Companies, features a restaurant, coffee shop, retail spaces, education and community event space, and flexible incubator spaces that will change over time. Transparent walls throughout the building “exhibit” activities so visitors and colleagues may witness innovative circular businesses at work. Site development will complement indoor activities with outdoor dining, container gardens, recycled art, and a UNC Charlotte student-designed coffee kiosk/tiny house, all to engage the surrounding neighborhood.