​​Hotshots, a sauce distribution company with a selection of barbeque and hot sauces, rubs, and snacks is owned and operated by Matt and Lauren Heald. The company was established in the late 1990s by Lauren’s uncle and was later bought by the couple in 2008. Since then, they’ve acquired hot sauce brands, expanded aggressively and focused on two sale channels: wholesale and direct to consumer (DTC) sales.

In late November, attendees from across the eastern region of North Carolina joined the NCGrowth team in Bertie County. Attendees learned about our projects supporting businesses, communities, and local and Tribal governments.

UNC Chapel Hill faculty and staff hit the road in October for the annual Tar Heel Bus Tour. With two buses covering both the east and west portions of North Carolina and with stops in 19 counties.

We hope to see you at the NCGrowth Showcase: Engaging for Economic Prosperity, which will take place 12-2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, in the Kenan Center Dining Room. The event is part of Carolina Engagement Week.