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.
