Raleigh, N.C.
North Carolina is embarking on a new journey towards economic growth, with the official commencement of the state’s forthcoming Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Plan. Set for a spring 2026 release, this initiative seeks widespread input from residents across the state.
Governor Josh Stein expressed the importance of the plan, emphasizing that “North Carolina has enjoyed a lot of success in recent years.” He added, “We want to keep the economy growing and make sure that Every North Carolinian – no matter where they live – has a fair shot at prosperity. That’s what this Steering Committee on North Carolina’s economic future is all about.”
The inaugural meeting of the Steering Committee took place on Monday, July 28, drawing together experts from both the public and private sectors to form a collaborative vision for North Carolina’s economic prospects. This ambitious plan aims to build upon the 2021 First in Talent Strategic Plan, addressing the state’s growing workforce needs and regional strengths in industries like advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and aerospace.
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley noted, “North Carolina continues to be the top state for business, but lasting prosperity requires greater growth for all people in all regions of the state.” He emphasized that the new plan will align people, policies, and places to sustain this growth.
A Community-Driven Approach
The strategy for developing this plan is inclusive, featuring nine public listening sessions across North Carolina, covering each of the eight Prosperity Zones and a virtual statewide webinar scheduled for August and September 2025. Facilitated by the UNC School of Government’s ncIMPACT Initiative, these sessions are designed to integrate local perspectives and ensure the plan caters to the varied needs and hopes of the state’s communities.
Anita Brown-Graham, Director of the ncIMPACT Initiative, highlighted that the process will “be guided by the voices of North Carolinians — from rural communities to growing urban centers — and grounded in data that will show where we are and where we need to go.”
Insights from these sessions will be supported by an in-depth economic analysis by the Commerce Department’s Labor and Economic Analysis Division (LEAD), laying a data-centric foundation for the plan’s objectives and proposals.
Role of the Steering Committee
The Steering Committee, under the leadership of Secretary Lilley, comprises members from various sectors, including business, education, and local government. This group will provide guidance on key themes and strategies to enhance economic development throughout North Carolina. A complete list of members is accessible here.
The committee’s responsibilities include:
- Facilitating outreach during regional listening sessions.
- Analyzing data and feedback to identify focal points.
- Offering expert advice on policy and program suggestions.
About the Strategic Plan
Mandated by G.S. 143B-434.01, North Carolina’s Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Plan is a four-year initiative aimed at unifying the state’s economic agenda. It seeks to harmonize efforts across sectors to ensure equitable opportunities for all North Carolinians.
Upon its completion in spring 2026, the plan will serve as a guide for state investments and actions through 2030. For further details on the planning process, visit the Strategic Plan webpage here.
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