Real Relationships. Real Referrals. Built for Hickory.
The Hickory Algorithm is a Hickory-based business coaching and networking company that helps local owners get seen, get connected, and grow.
To put relationships first, so Hickory businesses grow by sending work to each other.
Analog connection in a digital era.
What We Stand On
Relationships First
Technology is a tool, not the point. We build the kind of trust that sends business your way when you’re not in the room.
Refer, Don’t Compete
Our groups hold one seat per industry, so members refer each other instead of competing, and the business stays in Hickory.
Hire Local
Every contractor we hire lives and works in the Hickory area. What we spend on outside help goes back into our local economy.
Structure Creates Growth
Most small businesses don’t fail for lack of talent. They fail because no one gave them structure. Our coaching provides it.
Help the Whole Market
We publish a free guide to every networking group in the area, so every owner can find the room that fits them, even if it isn’t ours.
Show Up
For ribbon cuttings, for new businesses, and for members who need support. Being there in person is the work.
Built Here. For Here.
Chris didn't start The Hickory Algorithm because he had it figured out. He started it because he knew what it felt like to build something alone in a new market. He brings 24 years of small business management experience and a nationally recognized, award-winning marketing campaign — and he puts it to work here, for Hickory.
Chris hosts the two rooms at the core of everything The Hickory Algorithm does — the Mastermind Networking Group and The Breakfast Table leads group. He also volunteered as a facilitator with Strong Student Leadership at Maiden High School. He's not a consultant who parachutes in — he's a business owner navigating this market alongside you.
Chris takes on a limited number of 1:1 coaching clients each quarter. If you have been thinking about it, now is the time to find out if there is still a spot open.
Claim Your Spot →
Part of the Place We Serve
- Member of Sunrise Rotary Group
- Proud member of the Catawba Chamber of Commerce
- Facilitator for Strong Student Leadership at Maiden High School for two years
- Head Coach of the Hickory Yankees 15U REC team for the 2025 season
- Writes The Hickory Algorithm, a weekly Substack blog on the week’s personal and professional achievements
- Developing an after-school entrepreneurship program with a local high school, focused on growth within the Hickory area
- Spoke at a job fair at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church and School, encouraging young people to consider entrepreneurship as they plan their careers
- Local author: Your Business Cornerman is available to borrow at the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library at the SALT Block
- Regular participant in Catawba Chamber of Commerce events and ribbon cuttings for new Hickory businesses
- Author of the free Hickory Networking Guide, a public resource on every networking group in the region
- Business Spotlight YouTube features telling the stories of local businesses
Find Your Room in Hickory
Coaching, networking groups, and content, all built here.