Greensboro’s Path to Economic Growth: Universities, Innovation, and New Tools
Over one thousand leaders from business and civic sectors gathered for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce’s State of Our Community Luncheon at the Koury Convention Center. The spotlight of the event was on the pivotal role of research and innovation, especially the contributions of local universities, to the economic prosperity of Greensboro.
In a significant roundtable discussion, UNCG Chancellor Franklin Gilliam and N.C. A&T Chancellor James Martin shared their insights. Gilliam emphasized the importance of forging stronger connections between graduates and local employers to retain talent in Greensboro. Martin pointed out the risks associated with the loss of intellectual property.
“We’re one of the top six or seven systems in the country — the UNC system in terms of research that we do — but we’re not even the top 20 in terms of converting that research into GDP that stays in North Carolina,” Martin stated. “It’s going to Texas and California. We need to keep that here.”
The event also marked the introduction of a new research and data platform by the Chamber. This tool aims to enhance how businesses engage with their market by improving communication strategies.
