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 nearly 20 years, our extraordinary employees have been an integral part of our community and local economy. We have provided over 310,000 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

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

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Events

Save the Date: Inclusive Business Holiday Gift Market

Mark your calendars for the best gift market of the holiday season!

The annual Inclusive Business Holiday Gift Market is co-sponsored by Extraordinary Ventures and Work Together NC.

Wrap up your holiday gift shopping while making a positive social impact. All featured vendors are disability-owned small businesses or disability-inclusive local employers. Shop a wide range of unique and handcrafted items, including our own Extraordinary Gifts candles and soaps.

Saturday, December 5th, 2026
10am – 12:30pm
Blue Hill Event Center at Extraordinary Ventures
200 S. Elliott Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514