The North Carolina Department of Commerce has announced a series of public listening sessions aimed at engaging residents in shaping the state’s economic future. Starting on August 27, these sessions will allow citizens to share their ideas and concerns to influence the upcoming Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Plan. The sessions are organized across the state’s eight Prosperity Zones and include a virtual format, offering a wide range of opportunities for participation. The initiative is a collaborative effort facilitated by the University of North Carolina School of Government’s ncIMPACT Initiative.
The feedback from these sessions will be instrumental for the Steering Committee, composed of leaders from both the public and private sectors, in developing a comprehensive plan to enhance community strength and economic growth. North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley emphasized the importance of these sessions, underlining the need for input from residents across the state to ensure the plan addresses the needs of all regions. Participation is encouraged from a diverse group of stakeholders, including those from local and state governments, community organizations, education, healthcare, and business sectors. Registration for the sessions is free and available online.
The listening sessions are scheduled to take place in various locations, including Durham on August 27 and Kernersville on August 28, with additional sessions in Charlotte, Pembroke, Sylva, Lenoir, Edenton, and Jacksonville throughout September. A virtual session is also planned for September 30. These sessions will be informed by an economic analysis from the Commerce Department’s Labor and Economic Analysis Division, ensuring a data-driven approach to the plan’s development.
Anita Brown-Graham, director of the ncIMPACT Initiative, highlighted the value of local insights in shaping the state’s economic future, calling for a broad spectrum of stories and ideas to reflect the diverse opportunities and challenges across North Carolina. The plan will be finalized and published in spring 2026, setting the framework for statewide action and investment until 2030. Interested individuals can register for the listening sessions or get more information about the planning process at the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s official website.
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