North Carolina 2014 Economic Development Guide

2014

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"In the reorganization there is renewed emphasis on business development. We are putting more resources in the field rather than tie them up in Raleigh." What, besides numbers, sells the state? business. You want to develop places where talent wants to come and stay. Sharon and I used to work together at Charlotte-based Duke Energy Corp., whose philosophy was get commitment, build relationships and be involved in the community. It worked in Charlotte, and we think that same method can apply to the rest of the state. We've got the best of all worlds in North Carolina. There is so much choice in jobs, education and locations where you can work. We are very fortunate. McCrory: One thing I learned during my 14 years as mayor is that economic development is mostly about relationships — a commitment to where they wanted to live, work and raise a family — and recruiting talent. It's not all about Decker: Logistically, we've got an amazing location in the country and in the world. If companies are looking for an urban setting, rural opportunities or a place close to airports or with access to interstates that run in any direction, it's What is one unique aspect of the new brand? Decker: In the reorganization there is renewed emphasis on business development. We are putting more resources in the field rather than tie them up in Raleigh. Commerce officials will be engaged daily with companies already here. So once you come to North Carolina, you won't be left on your own. We want a long-term relationship to develop. all here. It's tough to beat what North Carolina can offer to move product around the world. I managed an apparel company in western North Carolina for about five years. It distributed product all over the world. Every two years or so, we thought about establishing a West Coast warehouse. Each time, we came to the conclusion that it didn't make sense — we can do it all from right here. There are also great places to play, don't forget that. I'll ask a younger person why he or she came to North Carolina, and often the reason will be kayaking, hiking or some other outdoor activity. We don't underestimate that when selling the state. It's a great place to live, work and play. The opportunities for weekend excursions are remarkable. That's not something available everywhere. Changing lives and supporting eConomiC development through eduCation • Serving Fayetteville and Cumberland County for over ffty years with highquality education and convenient study options • Offering over 180 affordable programs of study leading to the award of associate degree, certifcate or diploma • Customized skills training to meet sitespecifc expansion and relocation needs • Three convenient locations: Fayetteville campus, Spring Lake campus, and Fort Bragg Center (located within the Bragg Training and Education Center) — plus online, anytime! • A military-friendly school (2014 Guide to Military Friendly Schools) 16 www.faytechcc.edu NO RT H C AROL I NA E CO NOMI C DE V ELOP M E N T GU IDE

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