Cabarrus Economic Development

Cabarrus Economic Development We serve as the lead economic development agency for Cabarrus County and its municipalities.

The Cabarrus EDC makes a measurable impact on individuals and families through strategic partnerships that support local startups, existing businesses, and recruitment of new industry. We support business relocation and expansion in Cabarrus County by offering competitive incentives, a talented workforce, a wealth of available resources, and more to help new and existing businesses thrive.

CABARRUS UNWRAPPED: There’s Gold in Cabarrus County! Did you know America’s first documented gold discovery happened rig...
08/25/2026

CABARRUS UNWRAPPED: There’s Gold in Cabarrus County!

Did you know America’s first documented gold discovery happened right here in Cabarrus County?

In 1799, 12-year-old Conrad Reed discovered a 17-pound gold nugget near his family’s farm in what is now Midland. Not knowing its value, the family reportedly used it as a doorstop for three years!

That discovery helped launch America’s first gold rush, making North Carolina the nation’s leading gold-producing state until 1848.

⛏️ A few golden facts:

🪙 Conrad’s father sold the original nugget for only a fraction of its true value.

🤯 An even larger 28-pound nugget was later discovered at the mine.

🌎 Miners from Cornwall, England, brought advanced tunneling techniques to the operation.

🦇 Today, the historic tunnels are even home to bats!

Planning a visit? There’s plenty to explore at Reed Gold Mine. Visitors can:

⛏️ Tour the historic underground mine tunnels

✨ Pan for gold anytime during the year

🏛️ Explore the visitor center and exhibits to learn how gold was mined

🥾 Walk the grounds and trails of this historic property

📸 See firsthand where America’s first gold rush began

From a 12-year-old’s incredible discovery to a fun day trip today, there’s a lot of history to uncover right here in Cabarrus County.

Now that’s a story worth unwrapping! 💛

Visit their website at: historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/reed-gold-mine.

Photo credit: Explore Cabarrus

: Infrastructure That Fuels GrowthWhen people think of airports, they often think about travel. But Concord-Padgett Reg...
08/18/2026

: Infrastructure That Fuels Growth

When people think of airports, they often think about travel. But Concord-Padgett Regional Airport is much more than a place to catch a flight—it's a powerful economic engine fueling growth across Cabarrus County.

As we celebrate National Aviation Day on August 19, we honor the history and progress of flight—and recognize the important role aviation continues to play in shaping the future of communities like Cabarrus County.

As the City of Concord Government welcomes Eric Pratt, A.A.E. as its new Aviation Director, it's also a great opportunity to recognize the incredible impact the airport has on our community.

Concord-Padgett Regional Airport:

✈️ Generates more than $1.1 billion in annual economic output

👍 Supports 5,300+ jobs

💵 Creates more than $474 million in personal income

🌎 Connects travelers to 12 destinations across the East Coast and Puerto Rico

🏁 Serves as home to multiple NASCAR teams, flight schools, and a growing aviation industry

Our airport helps companies move faster, attracts new investment, supports tourism, strengthens our motorsports ecosystem, and gives businesses and talent another reason to choose Cabarrus County.

"This airport is a gateway to opportunity—for businesses, for travelers, and for our entire community." — Eric Pratt, Aviation Director

The airport's impact extends beyond business aviation. Through Avelo Airlines and Allegiant, travelers have convenient access to a growing list of nonstop destinations from Concord-Padgett Regional Airport. These commercial flights not only provide residents with more travel options but also strengthen the region's appeal for businesses, visitors, and workforce recruitment by making Cabarrus County more connected than ever.

Economic development depends on strong infrastructure, and Concord-Padgett Regional Airport continues to position Cabarrus County for long-term growth, innovation, and global connectivity.

We’re excited to welcome James Carter to the Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation as our new Business Retention and...
08/17/2026

We’re excited to welcome James Carter to the Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation as our new Business Retention and Entrepreneurship Manager!

James brings extensive experience in economic development, workforce development and business recruitment, most recently serving as Economic Development Program Manager for Talent Development with the City of Charlotte.

In his new role, James will support existing industries by helping ensure they have the resources needed to continue creating quality jobs and career opportunities for Cabarrus residents. He will also collaborate with the Cabarrus Center to further strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Please join us in welcoming James to the Cabarrus EDC team!

Read the full announcement: cabarrusedc.com/cabarrus-edc-welcomes-james-carter-as-new-business-retention-and-entrepreneurship-manager

🌟 : Unwrapping the Future of Healthcare InnovationAs students head back to school, they're not just preparing for anoth...
08/11/2026

🌟 : Unwrapping the Future of Healthcare Innovation

As students head back to school, they're not just preparing for another school year—they're preparing for careers that will shape the future.

This fall, Cabarrus County Schools is launching an exciting new Healthcare Innovation Microschool at Jay M. Robinson High School in partnership with Atrium Health and The Pearl CLT, beginning on Sept. 25, 2026.

This first-of-its-kind microschool will have an initial cohort of 30 freshmen and 30 sophomores and immerse students in the intersection of healthcare, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, combining classroom learning with hands-on experiences alongside industry leaders.

By connecting education with real-world workforce needs, Cabarrus County is creating opportunities for students to develop the skills employers are seeking today—and for the careers that will emerge tomorrow.

💡 Students will:
✅ Learn core academics through a healthcare lens
✅ Explore AI and data analytics
✅ Work alongside professionals at The Pearl
✅ Build skills through real-world projects and workplace experiences

"By connecting our students directly with industry experts and real-world problem solving, we're ensuring they graduate not only ready for college but for the careers shaping our community and our future." — Dr. John Kopicki, Superintendent, Cabarrus County Schools

As Cabarrus County continues to attract leading employers in life sciences and advanced manufacturing, programs like this help ensure our local talent is ready to grow alongside these opportunities.

When education, industry, and community partners work together, everyone benefits. That's how we build a workforce ready for what's next.

Want to learn more? View the Healthcare Innovation Academy presentation and frequently asked questions here: cabarrus.k12.nc.us/186093_3

: Building Talent That Grows with Our EmployersA strong workforce doesn't just fill jobs—it helps companies grow from w...
08/04/2026

: Building Talent That Grows with Our Employers

A strong workforce doesn't just fill jobs—it helps companies grow from within.

Launched in 2015, the North Carolina Manufacturing Institute (NCMI) is a unique collaboration connecting Cabarrus, Rowan, and Iredell counties through community colleges, workforce organizations, economic development partners, chambers of commerce, and manufacturers to build a stronger regional talent pipeline.

Today, the program has:
✅ 454 graduates trained for manufacturing careers
✅ 40 employer partners across the region
✅ A proven track record of helping manufacturers recruit, develop, and retain skilled employees

That impact is evident at companies like Celgard, where NCMI graduates are building long-term careers.

“Celgard has been proud to support graduates of the NCMI program as they transition into manufacturing careers at our Concord facility. Over the past four years, NCMI has become an important part of our talent pipeline, consistently producing candidates with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a manufacturing environment. We value our partnership with NCMI and look forward to continuing to support workforce development efforts in Cabarrus County and across the region.” – Nicholas Cleggett, HR Generalist

Ready to start your manufacturing career? The next NCMI class begins soon!

📅 August 18 – October 29, 2026
⏰ Monday–Thursday | 5:30–9:30 p.m.
📍 Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – Kannapolis Campus

Learn more and apply:
ncmanufacturinginstitute.com

: Unwrapping Site ReadinessBefore a company chooses to invest in a community, one important question has to be answered...
07/28/2026

: Unwrapping Site Readiness

Before a company chooses to invest in a community, one important question has to be answered:

Is the site ready?

That's why the Town of Harrisburg, NC recently completed the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program—an initiative that helps identify, evaluate, and strengthen industrial sites before opportunities arise.

Working alongside Duke Energy, Site Selection Group, The Nichols Company, Inc, the Cabarrus EDC, and local partners, the program analyzes infrastructure, utilities, transportation access, and development potential to make sites more competitive for future investment.

The Morehead West property is a major development opportunity on the western side of Harrisburg, encompassing 750+ acres near Morehead Road and Charlotte Motor Speedway. Its strategic location provides access to key transportation routes, employment centers, and regional attractions, making it well-suited for future commercial, industrial, hospitality, and mixed-use development. The property is viewed as an important catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and expansion of Harrisburg's tax base.

"The Town of Harrisburg within Cabarrus County is a compelling location along the I-85 corridor for advanced manufacturing and logistics users. Through the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program, public and private partners collaborated to advance a site on the interior of the market where development opportunities are scarce. These proactive efforts will be critical in attracting a high-impact user to expand the tax base and create new jobs." - Dewey Evans, Vice President, Site Selection Group

Across Duke Energy-served communities, the Site Readiness Program has helped attract 163+ companies, generate more than $57 billion in capital investment, and create over 52,000 jobs.

Economic development starts long before a groundbreaking. It begins with planning, partnership, and preparing our community for future opportunities.

Congratulations to the Town of Harrisburg on reaching this important milestone, and thank you to all of the partners working together to strengthen Cabarrus County's future.

Learn more: duke-energy.com/partner-with-us/economic-development/site-readiness-program

: Unwrapping Workforce SuccessEvery thriving economy starts with people—and Bryan Hull Jr.'s story is a great example o...
07/21/2026

: Unwrapping Workforce Success

Every thriving economy starts with people—and Bryan Hull Jr.'s story is a great example of what happens when talent, education, and opportunity come together.

Like many young adults, Bryan wasn't exactly sure what came next after graduation. He explored different paths, returned home to be closer to family, and decided to take a chance on Rowan-Cabarrus Community College's BioWork program. That decision changed everything.

Bryan completed BioWork, an 8-week workforce development training course that prepares individuals for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and life sciences through industry-focused instruction and hands-on learning.

The RCCC BioWork program is 1 of 15 across NC.

RCCC also has an aseptic training room which provides specialized aseptic and cleanroom training through the Aseptic Technician Program and BioWork certificate offerings.

Today, more than two years into his career at Lilly, Bryan is a formulation technician, has advanced into a training role, and is continuing his education while building a bright future right here in Cabarrus County.

All of this support infrastructure provides Cabarrus County with the ability to support new life sciences companies interested in the community.

Bryan's success story is also a reminder that economic development is about creating opportunities for people. Through the collaboration of the Cabarrus EDC, our municipal partners, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, and countless community stakeholders, Cabarrus County helped create the conditions that attracted Lilly's investment. That means local residents like Bryan can pursue world-class careers without leaving home.

That's the Cabarrus Formula in action: strong partnerships, strategic investment, workforce development, and employers creating life-changing opportunities for our community.

As part of , we're celebrating the people, partnerships, and investments that continue to shape Cabarrus County's future.

"I hope my story reaches someone who isn't sure what comes next. Sometimes stepping into something unfamiliar is exactly what you need."

Read Bryan's full story: cabarrusedc.com/student-spotlight

🌳 : Unwrapping the Great OutdoorsJuly is Park and Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate one of the ...
07/14/2026

🌳 : Unwrapping the Great Outdoors

July is Park and Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate one of the many reasons people choose to live, work, and play in Cabarrus County.

From greenways and hiking trails to splash pads, playgrounds, mountain bike trails, paddle sports, disc golf, fishing, and community parks, Cabarrus County offers outdoor spaces for every age and interest. These amenities help create the active, connected lifestyle today's workforce is looking for.

📊 The impact is clear:

🌿Nearly 1.4 million visitors enjoy Cabarrus County parks each year.

🎯 In the past year, Active Living & Parks offered more than 6,000 programs for residents of all ages.

⛳ More than 5,600 rounds of miniature golf, 3,600 paddle boat rides, 5,500 pool visits, and 5,200 fitness class participants show just how much our community embraces the outdoors.

And we're not stopping there.

Communities across Cabarrus County are investing in the future through comprehensive parks and recreation master plans that will expand trails, enhance existing parks, preserve natural spaces, and create new opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors for generations to come.

In Concord alone, their Parks and Recreation General Obligation (GO) Bond
includes funding for 9 total park projects – 4 brand new parks and renovations to 5 existing parks. It also includes additional greenways and greenway connectors within the park projects.

Quality of life is a key driver of economic development, and our commitment to parks and recreation helps attract and retain the talent that fuels our local economy.

One of our community's strongest partners, the Cabarrus County Convention & Visitors Bureau—Explore Cabarrus—highlights the many experiences that make our community a destination for visitors while also serving as a valuable resource for residents looking to enjoy everything Cabarrus County has to offer.

Its Outdoor Adventures directory showcases the parks, greenways, trails, and outdoor experiences that make Cabarrus County such a special place to call home:
explorecabarrus.com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventures

🌱 : Growing Big Dreams from Local RootsBehind every successful small business is a story—and often, a community of peop...
07/07/2026

🌱 : Growing Big Dreams from Local Roots

Behind every successful small business is a story—and often, a community of people and resources helping it grow.

This week, we're unwrapping one of Cabarrus County's greatest strengths: our entrepreneurial ecosystem.

When Kate turned her passion for growing flowers into The Zin Garden, she found more than business advice through the Retail Lab program operated by the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Small Business Center and the Flywheel Foundation at the Cabarrus Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

She found mentorship, a network of fellow entrepreneurs, and the confidence to grow her dream. Today, her locally grown, pesticide-free flower business is expanding with a new greenhouse and exciting plans for the future.

🌸 From passion project to thriving business
🤝 Mentorship and support through the Retail Lab
💡 Resources that help entrepreneurs refine their ideas, strengthen their businesses, and access funding

Entrepreneurs don't have to build their businesses alone. Through programs like the Retail Lab, Cabarrus County is investing in the innovators, makers, and small business owners who help shape our local economy and strengthen our communities.

When small businesses thrive, they help create the kind of vibrant, resilient economic environment that attracts larger companies to invest, expand, or locate and grow right here in Cabarrus County.

Read Kate's inspiring story from our partners at the Rowan-Cabarrus Small Business Center: https://www.rccc.edu/sbc/blog

: As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, our first feature shines a spotlight on a company that helps display one...
06/30/2026

: As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, our first feature shines a spotlight on a company that helps display one of our nation's most enduring symbols of patriotism.

When people think about innovation and economic growth, they don't always think about broom handles, flagpoles, and wooden dowels. But for more than 65 years, Whitley Monahan Handle in Midland has quietly been producing products used across the country while demonstrating the values that make Cabarrus County a great place to do business.

🇺🇸 Founded in Midland in 1960 by Bunk and Arlene Whitley
🏭 Employs approximately 40 people in Cabarrus County
👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Family-owned and operated across multiple generations
🚩 Produces flagpoles and other wood products used by customers nationwide
🤝 Partners with Cabarrus Vocational Opportunities to create meaningful employment opportunities
💼 Invests in workforce development and provides second-chance employment opportunities
❤️ Deeply rooted in the Midland community and committed to giving back

Whitley Monahan Handle is more than a manufacturer—it's a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, family leadership, workforce partnerships, and community investment.

Their commitment to workforce development, second chance hiring and creating pathways to meaningful employment, reflects one of Cabarrus County's greatest strengths: building talent pipelines that connect residents with opportunity while helping employers meet workforce needs. These collaborations help ensure local businesses have access to skilled, dedicated employees while strengthening the county's long-term economic competitiveness.

Sometimes the strongest economic development stories aren't the newest—they're the companies that have been building products, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities for generations.

Learn more about Whitley Handle: cabarrusedc.com/made-in-cabarrus-whitley-handle

Address

57 Union Street S
Concord, NC
28025

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+17047031725

Website

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