October 15, 2020

Charlotte Regional Business Alliance named “Best in Class” Economic Development Group
The CLT Alliance ranked No. 3 “Best in Class” regional economic development agency, according to a new survey of U.S. corporate executives released today at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference. North Carolina was also ranked in the Top 3 States to do business which is up two spots, due to the state’s existing and future pipeline of talent and its overall favorable business. EDPNC was recognized as the top ‘Best in Class: State Economic Development Organizations.” View the whole report here.

Forward Together Series
The Charlotte Business Journal in partnership with the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance will host a series of events to share what each county is doing to build a strong economy where businesses and people can thrive. Come hear what makes each one different and successful from the perspectives of the business leaders in each county. Join us for the kickoff of the series featuring Stanly County on October 21st.

CLT Alliance Talks: Vote Yes For Bonds
Joe Bost, SVP of Government Affairs with the CLT Alliance talks with Mayor Pro Tem Julie Eiselt and Brian Francis of Francis Consulting. In their conversation they discuss the three bond questions that will appear on the ballot this fall. They share with us the potential impact these bonds will have on our community and what we need to know in advance of voting in the 2020 election.

How Finance and Manufacturing Power the Regional Economy
The Charlotte region is the nation's 22nd largest economy. Industries have varied effects on the regional economy. The differences in these effects are driven largely by the ability to sell goods or services outside of the Charlotte Region. Two key industries stick out, with the Finance and Insurance sector, and the Manufacturing sector, accounting for more than 28% of the region's economy combined. It's not surprising that Charlotte, as the 2nd-largest banking center in the United States.

Two Economic Development Announcements in the Charlotte Region
On Monday, Arrival, a global electric vehicle (EV) company, announced plans to establish its first U.S. Microfactory in York County. The $46 million investment into the region will create 240 new jobs. Benestar Brands, an international snack food manufacturer, announced on Tuesday, they will create 129 jobs in Cleveland County and will invest $24 million to establish a new production facility in Kings Mountain.

Social Post of the Week
Today we are kicking off our three-part virtual Leadership Planning Retreat Series! Over the next three weeks we will hear from Charlotte Region’s leaders—from business, government, education, and community—in our new and changed environment. Hear from thought leaders on the “Trifecta Crisis” including racial equity in the business community, business recovery during a global pandemic, and equitable economic growth. #FWDTogetherCLT

Event Spotlight: Charlotte Alliance Young Professionals Virtual Luncheon
We've seen many issues discussed during this election year. Health care, racial equity, taxes, how to vote, etc., have all been the topics of much debate and conversation. Understanding the important issues on the ballot and becoming familiar with the resources available is critical. Join us on October 27th, for a non-partisan conversation with two of our Charlotte city councilmembers; Tariq Bokhari and Larken Egleston, who also host a podcast together. And you, as a young professional, will learn some important voter statistics and the role you play during this year's election.

Never has the CLT Alliance’s vision statement been truer than now:
With united vision and bold action, we will create the most vibrant, innovative and healthy economy in the nation.

If you share our belief, spread the word and share the CLT Alliance Digest. Also, check out a special page on our website created as an easy reference point for the latest COVID-19 business and workplace information.

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