Jeffrey P. Benes

Harris Corp. engages in the provision of technology-based solutions for tactical communications, geospatial systems and services, air traffic management, avionics and electronic warfare, and space and intelligence. It operates through the following business segments: Communication Systems, Electronic Systems, Space and Intelligence Systems, and Corporate. The Communication Systems segment services markets in tactical communications and defense products, including tactical ground and airborne radio communications solutions and night vision technology, in public safety networks. The Electronic Networks Systems segment provides electronic warfare, avionics, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance solutions for the defense industry and air traffic management solutions for the civil aviation industry. The Space and Intelligence systems provides intelligence, space protection, geospatial, complete earth observation, universe exploration, positioning, navigation and timing, environmental solutions for national security, defenses, civil and commercial customers, using advanced sensors, antennas and payloads, as well as ground processing and information analytics. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Melbourne, FL.

Berg Electronics Corp. manufactures and markets electronic connectors and cable assembly products. The company offers electronic connectors, and sockets to the computer, telecommunications, and industrial markets. It has locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The firm is located in St. Louis, MO.

MCMS, Inc. is a global provider of advanced electronics manufacturing services to original equipment manufacturers that primarily serve the data communications, telecommunications, and computer/memory module industries. It offers a broad range of electronics manufacturing services, including pre-production engineering and product design support, prototyping, supply chain management, manufacturing and testing of printed circuit board assemblies, full system assembly, end-order fulfillment and after-sales product support. It delivers this broad range of services through operations in Nampa, Idaho; Durham, North Carolina; Penang, Malaysia; Colfontaine, Belgium; Monterrey, Mexico; and San Jose, California.

Avantek, Inc. is an American company that specializes in creating innovative home decor solutions. The private company's flagship product, the Ferrous Wall, allows users to modernize their rooms to a futuristic level by eliminating the need for nails or screws to attach shelves and cabinets. This gives users complete freedom to move around shelves and picture frames. Additionally, Avantek has created the world's first retractable magnetic hinge, which uses magnetic force that can be turned on and off with the click of a button.

Catalyst Manufacturing Services, Inc. manufactures computers and electronic products. It offers its products to the industrial, medical, security/military, and telecom/datacom marketplaces. The firm specializes in the manufacture of low to medium volume, medium to high mix EMS requirements including prototype and quick-turn requirements, for both turnkey and consigned inventory programs. The company was founded by Jeffrey P. Benes & Bob Mackowiak in March 2002 and is headquartered in Morrisville, NC.

Council for Entrepreneurial Development provides an interactive forum for entrepreneurs, investors, service professionals, academicians, researchers and public policy makers. Its services and programs include connections to capital, venture mentoring, and signature conferences empower member companies to go further. The company was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Durham, NC.

The Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that provides resources and support to small businesses in the Raleigh, NC area. The non-profit company's services include tax assistance and a small business resource guide.