Creating purpose

Extraordinary Ventures is a non-profit with a mission to create self-sustaining small businesses that provide employment opportunities for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities such as autism.

We operate 6 successful small businesses offering top quality products and services. For more than 15 years, our extraordinary employees have been an integral part of our community and local economy. We have provided over 240,000 hours of meaningful employment for our neurodiverse workforce.

Learn More About Our Mission

Our Ventures

We operate a portfolio of approximately six ventures on a true business model. Your choice to use our businesses advances our community impact by providing employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities like autism.

See Our Ventures

Have we got a story to tell

“One of our goals is giving adults with autism and other challenges a chance to be an integrated member of a workforce and contributor to society.”
– Lori Ireland, Founder of Extraordinary Ventures

Read Our Story

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Stay up to date with the latest news from Extraordinary Ventures, including information about special events.

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Invest in our mission to create meaningful job opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities such as autism.

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Events

Inclusive Business Spring Gift Market

Join us for the annual Inclusive Business Spring Gift Market at Blue Hill Event Center at Extraordinary Ventures! It’s the perfect time to pick up unique gifts for Mother’s Day, teachers, and spring birthdays while supporting local businesses committed to employing an inclusive workforce.

When: Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 from 10am – 1pm

Where: Blue Hill Event Center 200 S. Elliott Rd., Chapel Hill, NC

Be sure to visit our Extraordinary Gifts table to pick up handmade scented candles and soaps handcrafted by a neurodiverse workforce at Extraordinary Ventures.

Events

2025 UNC Football Parking Season Passes Now Available!

Now is the time to order your Tar Heels football parking season passes!

Secure a great parking spot for every home game while also benefiting the mission of Extraordinary Ventures. It’s a win/win!

Spots are selling quickly, so order now.