Local Entrepreneur (and Raleighwood Media Group Founder) Lisa Jeffries Nobling Advances to Top 16 in Statewide Startup Showdown for New Concept “The Borrow Bar”
Local entrepreneur and small business advocate Lisa Jeffries Nobling has been selected as a top 16 finalist out of over 300 applicants in the Small Business Center Network (SBCN) Start Up Showdown. Competing for up to $30,000 in startup funding, Nobling is introducing The Borrow Bar, a membership-based service offering on-demand access to high-end household and hosting goods in Wake County.
Following successful participation in Launch Garner and a category award at the Wake Tech Blueprint to Skyline Business Pitch Competition, Nobling pitched the “access over ownership” concept to a panel of four “Shark Tank”-style judges in August. The final phase of the competition relies on a community vote, which opens today and runs through Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.
The Borrow Bar addresses the modern dilemma of household clutter by allowing members to borrow premium items—from espresso machines to outdoor movie projectors—without the financial and spatial burden of ownership. Built-in self-insurance and a robust delivery and pickup model ensure a seamless experience. A limited 50-member beta will launch locally this month.
How the Community Can Vote
Local residents can support The Borrow Bar by completing the following:
- Visit the official YouTube pitch video: https://youtu.be/O2oMZbTOw8Q
- Click the “Thumbs Up” (Like) button on the video before 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.
- Each “Like” counts as an official community vote toward the final score.
About The Borrow Bar
The Borrow Bar is a membership-driven service offering access to high-quality household and entertaining items without the cost, clutter, or commitment of ownership. Designed to provide “access over ownership,” The Borrow Bar allows members to borrow premium goods—from specialty hosting essentials to seasonal gear—for a fraction of the retail price. With convenient doorstep delivery and local pickup options, the company handles all maintenance and long-term storage, helping members save valuable time and space. The Borrow Bar champions a smarter, eco-friendly lifestyle by reducing waste and sharing resources across the Wake County community. Discover more at theborrowbar.co.
Lisa Jeffries Nobling is a Raleigh native, a third-generation business owner, and a data-driven marketing maven. Graduating from N.C. State University's College of Textiles and College of Management in 2007, Lisa has been immersed in the marketing world since 2005. In 2008, she boldly ventured into entrepreneurship, founding her firm, Raleighwood Media Group + Raleighwood Event Group. Through the agency, Lisa has lent her expertise to numerous individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations, crafting extensive marketing plans and orchestrating professionally executed sales, marketing, and hospitality events. In addition to leading Raleighwood's boutique marketing and commercial events agency, Lisa's entrepreneurial spirit runs deep with additional businesses she has founded that are still active in her portfolio, including Invest in Her Real Estate, Bay Breeze Retreat, Raleigh Food & Wine, Raleighwood Wifi, Raleigh Weekend, and Vivian's Denim + Bar.
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