On February 25, 2025, NCGrowth and the Kenan Institute for Private Enterprise hosted “Thriving in the Carolinas: Supporting Small Businesses and Communities” at the UNC Kenan Center. This drop-in style event attracted over 100 attendees, including entrepreneurs, community leaders, and students, all dedicated to fostering inclusive economic growth in the Carolinas. 

Event Highlights: 

• Interactive Stations: The event featured stations spotlighting various client projects and research initiatives. Attendees explored topics such as tribally-led tourism development, outdoor recreation economies, Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, and innovations by small manufacturers in rural North Carolina. 
• Student Engagement: Students had the opportunity to engage directly with ongoing projects, gaining insights into real-world applications of economic development strategies. 
• Community Collaboration: The gathering facilitated meaningful connections among small business owners, community stakeholders, and academic professionals, promoting collaborative efforts to support local economies. 
• Culinary Delights: Participants enjoyed a delectable lunch from The Shrimp Truck, known for its fresh, quality shrimp offerings like shrimp tacos and quesadillas. For dessert, Elaka Treats – a former NCGrowth client – provided an array of unique globally inspired ice creams. 

This event was part of Carolina Engagement Week and was generously sponsored by Partner Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution supporting businesses and non-profits in underserved communities across Central Appalachia and the Southeast. 

For more information on upcoming events and initiatives, visit NCGrowth’s events page. 

• Keyword(s):
• Business Acceleration 19
• Economic Development 2
• event 22

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