North Carolina Economic Development Association

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 Appalachian State University's very own Patricia Mitchell, CEcD for sharing her testimony with us! #NCEDA #EconomicDevelopment

As the #NCEDA2024Annual Conference comes to a close, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event possible and memorable. Special appreciation goes to our dedicated attendees, speakers, and volunteers who contributed to the success of each session and networking opportunity.   We also owe immense gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support played a crucial role in bringing this conference to life, with a special thanks to ECS Limited, our presenting sponsor. Your commitment to economic development and community building is invaluable to us. Together, we have created a platform for learning, networking, and inspiration that will resonate long after the conference concludes. Stay connected with us for updates and future events. Thank you once again for being a part of #NCEDA2024Annual Conference!

This morning, those attending the #NCEDA2024Annual Conference heard creative solutions on how communities can obtain affordable housing. As economic developers, we must be advocates for affordable housing, and the advocacy starts with educating those in our communities – our elected officials and community members. Panelist moderator, and President and CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, Natalie Haskins English, CCE, IOM stated “Affordable housing means workforce housing, and if you can’t house the workforce within your community, it’s a challenge for employers to move to your community.” When businesses consider coming to the state, they’re asking “where are my employees going to live and how far will they have to commute?” said Brad Galbraith, Managing Director, Community Development of Jupiter Building Dynamics. We must advocate, consider public-private partnerships, and invest in creative solutions to solve these challenges within our community. Thank you to our panelists: · Robert Campbell, Pastor of New Beginnings Christian Church · Sam McCachern President and CEO of Thomas and Hutton · Sarah Odio, Associate Director of Housing and Revitalization · Brad Galbraith, Managing Director, Community Development of Jupiter Building Dynamics #EconomicDevelopment #WorkforceDevelopment

The final day of #NCEDA2024Annual Conference is off to a great start! NCEDA Vice-President, Gary Lanier, Ed.D., started us off with a warm welcome and a big thank you to ECS, our presenting sponsor. We heard about next year's leadership lineup from NCEDA’s past President Chris Platé, and current President Joanna Helms gave a heartfelt thanks to outgoing board members. Elizabeth Underwood, NCCED, Chair of the Emerging Executives Committee shared some exciting updates from the Emerging Executives Committee. It's been a morning full of appreciation and looking ahead to what's next for NCEDA! 

Congratulations to the 2024 NCEDA Award Recipients! NCEDA is proud to recognize the following individuals for their outstanding contributions to economic development in North Carolina: o Gary Lanier, Ed.D., Director of Columbus County Economic Development Commission, awarded the 2024 Small Market Deal of the Year. o Dylan Finch, Senior Business Recruitment Manager at Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), and Marvin Price, Executive Vice President of Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, honored for the 2024 Mid-Size Market Deal of the Year. o Kevin Franklin, President of Randolph County Economic Development Corporation, recipient of the 2024 Large Market Deal of the Year. o Mary Lesa Pegg, North Carolina Industrial Development Manager for Norfolk Southern, recognized as the 2024 NCEDA Innovator of the Year. o Elizabeth Underwood, NCCED, Director of Economic Development for Stanly County, named the 2024 Emerging Leader of the Year. o Kelly Andrews, CEcD, Economic Development Director of Pitt County, and Page Castrodale, Executive Director of Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation, awarded the 2024 Economic Developers of the Year. o Katherine Thomas, Vice President of Business Development & Marketing at Alfred Williams and Company, honored with the 2024 President’s Award. These awards celebrate their dedication and achievements in driving economic prosperity across our communities. Congratulations again to all the recipients! #NCEDA2024Annual #EconomicDevelopment

Congratulations to the newest North Carolina Certified Economic Developer (NCCED) Program recipients! This certification reflects their dedication, expertise, and commitment to advancing economic development in our communities. Please join us in congratulating: o Dylan Bowen, Columbus County Economic Development Corporation o Kelly Leggett Bowers, NCCED, Timmons Group o Anna Clayton Bridgeman, Stanly County Economic Development Commission o Trey Cash, North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region o Charla Duncan, MPA, NCCED, Warren County Economic Development o Craig Foucht, NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region o Katie Gavenus, Town of Beech Mountain o Nate Groover, Town of Garner o Nathan Hester, MPA, NCCED, City of Bessemer City o Melissa McGurk, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina o Colleen Merays, Apex Economic Development o Blake Moyer, Surry County Economic Development Partnership o Susan Phelps, Nash County Economic Development o Brian Scriba, Gaston County o Susan Squires, Beaufort County Economic Development o Phillip Thompson, Chatham County Economic Development Corporation ECU Continuing and Professional Education #NCEDA2024Annual #EconomicDevelopment

Earlier today at #NCEDA2024Annual, Dr. Melissa Furman's insights shed light on the dynamics of today's workforce, where 5 generations coexist. Baby Boomers bring dedication, Gen X resilience, and Millennials redefine career success with flexibility. As we face a looming leadership gap, it's crucial to unite these diverse perspectives. Let's bridge generational differences by embracing common ground and fostering mutual respect. Together, we can reshape recruiting strategies and create inclusive workplaces where every generation can thrive! #NCEDA #WorkforceDevelopment #EconomicDevelopment

During a panel discussion this morning at the #NCEDA2024Annual Conference, insights were shared from representatives of North Carolina Department of Commerce and Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) on the Megasite and Selectsite Program. Susan Fleetwood from the NC Department of Commerce highlighted significant progress, noting that since 2021, NC-certified sites have attracted 14 companies, resulting in $10 billion in investments and creating 12,500 jobs statewide. Dave Horne, representing Smith Anderson, emphasized the critical role of site selection and workforce development in economic growth discussions. Garrett Wyckoff from EDPNC stressed the importance of identifying smaller sites, noting that not every major project requires extensive acreage. The panel underscored the collaborative efforts between NCEDA, local governments, and the state legislature in advancing economic development initiatives across North Carolina. #ncga #ncpol #EconomicDevelopment

Exciting Announcement from #NCEDA2024Annual Conference! Crystal Morphis, CEcD and Jonathan Morgan just unveiled the "New Economic Development Handbook and How to Guides" available to everyone! To access this resource, use the QR code below or visit this link: https://lnkd.in/enYpNwzv #NCEDA #EconomicDevelopment

Good morning, #NCEDA2024Annual! Day two in Wilmington is off to an energetic start! This year's theme, "Tomorrow Starts Today: Strategies for Success," underscores our commitment to North Carolina's economic growth. Joanna Helms, NCEDA President, emphasized, "Despite challenges, North Carolina has thrived!" We received updates on our by-laws and exciting new initiatives such as scholarships and the NCEDA Fellowship Program, demonstrating our dedication to advancing economic development skills and opportunities. As we engage in today's sessions and networking, let's continue learning and growing together. Follow #NCEDA2024Annual for updates and join the conversation!