Chaired by North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, the Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Plan Steering Committee brings together leaders from business, education, workforce development, local government, and nonprofit organizations to help develop the state’s next strategic plan for economic development. Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton serves on the committee that will provide guidance on emerging priorities, effective strategies, and key themes to advance economic growth across diverse communities and sectors. In addition, committee members will support outreach during regional listening sessions, review data and stakeholder input to identify focus areas, and contribute expert insight to inform policy and program recommendations.
Read the Q&A below featuring Secretary Lee Lilley about the strategic planning process and how you can get involved.
Why are you developing a strategic plan and when do you anticipate its completion?
We’re the best state for business in the country, but to remain on top and to ensure all of our communities have a chance to build prosperity, we need a plan to ensure our resources are deployed for maximum impact. Every four years, North Carolina develops a Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Plan to guide the state’s growth and competitiveness. This plan ensures we focus on the right priorities, supported by strong data and community input. Our current process builds on the First in Talent plan adopted in 2021. We expect to release the updated plan in spring 2026, setting the course for economic development through 2030.
Who is leading the strategic planning process and what other key stakeholders are involved?
In partnership with Governor Josh Stein, the Department of Commerce is leading the process. The Steering Committee, comprised of leaders from business, education, workforce development, local government, and nonprofits guides the work. Anita Brown-Graham and her team at the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Government’s ncIMPACT Initiative are facilitating listening sessions across the state. Together, these partners ensure the plan reflects perspectives and best ideas from every corner of NC.
What are the key components of the strategic planning process?
The plan is grounded in data-driven research from Commerce’s Labor and Economic Analysis Division and community input from across the state. The Steering Committee reviews this information, identifies key themes, and shapes actionable recommendations. The plan will provide strategies that can be applied statewide while recognizing the unique needs of North Carolina’s eight Prosperity Zones.
What topics will the plan address?
The plan will focus on the most pressing challenges and opportunities for North Carolina’s economy, including:
- Preparing our workforce for current and future jobs
- Supporting key industry clusters that generate great jobs
- Preparing for disruptions from technology and demography
- Supporting every region in building on its unique strengths
How can the public engage in the strategic planning process?
Effective economic development is community-driven, so this must be a community-driven plan, which means hearing directly from North Carolinians. Beginning August 27, Commerce is hosting a series of listening sessions in each Prosperity Zone, plus a statewide virtual session on September 30. These sessions are open to residents, business owners, educators, nonprofits, and local leaders. They provide a forum for sharing ideas and priorities that will directly inform the state’s next plan.
A full schedule of sessions and registration details are available on the Commerce website. We encourage everyone to take part—the voices of North Carolinians will shape this roadmap for growth and opportunity through 2030.