North Carolina Economic Development Association

Attention NCEDA members! Join us in supporting our thriving student community's career journey. As our membership grows, so does our dedication to providing valuable professional growth opportunities. We're seeking internship opportunities! Whether for this fall or upcoming semesters, we want to connect students with enriching experiences in our field. YOUR help is key! Have an internship opening or know of one? Let us know! Send opportunities to Brandie Grubb, our Marketing and Communications Manager, at [email protected]. Your contributions will nurture the next generation of talent and strengthen our community. Thank you for being a vital part of our network! Together, let's empower individuals to thrive in their careers. #NCEDA #CareerDevelopment #EconomicDevelopment

The NCEDA Foundation is excited to announce its 3rd Annual Silent Auction fundraiser, and we need your support to make it a success! We invite you to donate items such as sporting event tickets, gift certificates, complimentary stays, or gift baskets from your business, community, or local tourism authority. To view the form, visit: Proceeds will fund professional development scholarships for economic developers, as well as awareness, training, and research programs. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the generous donations we've received so far: • Carolina Panthers NFL Tickets • Carolina Hurricanes Hockey Tickets • High Point University Swag & Basketball Tickets • US Open Gift Basket • Carolina Christmas Train Event Tickets • Complimentary Hotel Stays • Mimosa Hills Golf Course Golf Package • Tobacco Road Golf Package • Family Portrait Session • Bourbon Gift Basket • Yeti Cooler Please note that the deadline to submit items and donation forms is Friday, October 18. For any questions, feel free to reach out to Torsha at 888.246.2332 or [email protected]. Thank you for your support!

We’re thrilled to invite you to our upcoming New Member Orientation! This session is primarily designed for those who joined within the last year, but all members are welcome to participate. Join us for this complimentary virtual meeting where you’ll have the opportunity to explore our association, learn about our programming, and discover how you can get involved. • Discover more about NCEDA and our various programs. • Meet our management team and understand their roles within the association. • Connect with NCEDA Board members. • Network with fellow new members and share your reasons for joining and how you wish to engage. As this is a new initiative, we’ll host three orientations. The sessions will cover the same content but are scheduled at different times to accommodate everyone interested in attending. The upcoming dates, times, and registration links are listed below: October 10 • 10 – 11 am Register here: https://lnkd.in/eVamB_fn   October 10 • 1 – 2 pm Register here: https://lnkd.in/eAtqMnNJ   October 11 • 10 – 11 am Register here: https://lnkd.in/einMp3gf

Our hearts go out to the communities in Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. In light of these events, we encourage you to read the letter that NCEDA President Gary Lanier, Ed.D. sent to our members this morning for more information and updates: https://lnkd.in/ei5ykq6F. If you would like to help, please consider donating to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund. Your support can make a significant difference in the recovery efforts. To donate, visit: https://lnkd.in/eeWj-4CM

This week we're spotlighting NCEDA member Kristen Proctor! Originally from Mocksville, she is an alumnus of University of North Carolina Asheville and presently calls the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area her home. She currently serves as the Project Development Coordinator for Samet Corporation. #EconomicDevelopment #NCEDA

By offering scholarships, the NCEDA Foundation plays a crucial role in fostering economic development within our communities. These scholarships empower professionals with the education and skills needed to thrive, thereby driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth. Your support will directly contribute to this impactful mission, ensuring a brighter future for our economy and community as a whole. To learn more and donate, visit: https://lnkd.in/e-DGipDb. #NCEDAFoundation #EconomicDevelopment 

Join us for the 2024 NCEDA Fall Conference, where over 300 professionals from across the state will gather to gain insights from experts on the latest economic development issues. Presented by Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc., this conference offers a unique opportunity to connect with respected leaders and build valuable relationships that enhance our work and communities. Don’t miss your chance to engage in meaningful discussions that will shape the future of economic development. For more information and to register, visit: https://lnkd.in/e6b3eWUc

This week we're highlighting NCEDA Board Member, Clark Duncan! Clark is the Senior Vice President of Economic Development EDC for Asheville-Buncombe County and Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. We asked him some questions to help you get to know him better. Learn more about Clark below! What aspects of serving on the NCEDA board do you find most fulfilling or meaningful? A: Serving on the Board and Membership of NCEDA has been an honor. Working alongside peers from all corners of North Carolina is a great reminder of the strength and unique potential of our state.   In what ways do you think economic development directly influences our communities? A: The mission of the Asheville Chamber and EDC is ‘Building Community Through Business’, recognizing the connection of stronger businesses, better jobs and ultimately improved opportunities and outcomes for the households and communities we serve.   Reflecting on your career, what accomplishment or contribution has been particularly significant to you? A: The New Belgium Brewing Project of 2012 was especially meaningful in my early career. Beyond the important metrics of new job creation, wage and capital investment, the project catalyzed hundreds of millions in community investment in surrounding greenway, public art, transportation infrastructure, and residential infill that continue to revitalize our River Arts District. Just as importantly, it has changed the way we think about community impact, corporate philanthropy and the employment practices of companies we recruit into our economy.   What do you appreciate most about the NCEDA?  A: I am inspired by the passions and best practices of my peers across the State and leave every NCEDA meeting proud to be part of #TeamNorthCarolina. Learn more about Clark here: www.nceda.org/about/board/

The NCEDA Foundation is dedicated to advancing economic development in North Carolina by empowering economic developers, enhancing their skills, and fostering a stronger statewide community. Through funding professional development, research, and education programs, especially in underserved, distressed, and rural counties, we aim to create opportunities for all economic developers across the state. Your support will enable us to bridge gaps in resources and opportunities, ensuring every part of North Carolina thrives. Join us in shaping an equitable future for all. For more information about the NCEDA Foundation and how to give, visit: https://lnkd.in/eq3dxytE Special thanks to Allen Tate Relocation's very own Rachel Brumfield, for sharing her testimony with us! #EconomicDevelopment #NCEDAFoundation

Thank you to everyone who joined us today for our Charlotte Area Networking Luncheon featuring a compelling panel discussion on “Workforce Training Trends in the Charlotte Region: How Community Colleges Meet the Needs of Diverse Industries & Diverse Communities.” We were honored to hear insights from leaders in the community college sector, who shared their perspectives on innovative workforce training strategies. Our esteemed panelists included: · John C. Loyack, Vice President of Economic Development, North Carolina Community College System (Moderator) · Dr. John Hauser, President, Gaston College · Dr. Heather Hill, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Central Piedmont Community College · Chris Rivera, Vice President of Business & Workforce Solutions, South Piedmont Community College A big thank you to our panelists, attendees, and presenting sponsor McGuireWoods Consulting, for making today’s event a success. Your contributions help shape the future of workforce training and economic development in North Carolina. #EconomicDevelopment #WorkforceDevelopment #NCEDA