Economic Development

May 14, 2019

First in Future: President of the Statesville Chamber of Commerce Shannon Viera

Summary: The growing economy is causing business challenges across the state as communities scramble to attract talented people from other places to work there, and to make sure the people… 

Feb 12, 2019

Population Deconcentration and Job Growth in North Carolina

Local economic development policies are often oriented toward stimulating employment growth.  The measuring stick most commonly used for gauging the success of a particular municipal or county development effort –… 

Jan 29, 2019

First in Future: Executive Director for the Triangle J Council of Governments Lee Worsley

Summary: “When an urban area wins, it ends up being a victory for the entire state, when a rural area struggles, it is a concern for the whole state”. That is… 

Jan 24, 2019

First in Future: Policy and Program Manager for the Institute for Emerging Issues Maggie Woods

Summary: The ReCONNECT to Community Impact Report provides a synopsis of the ReCONNECT to Community Forum and provides key statements, findings, readings and further steps for reconnection of civic engagement in… 

Nov 20, 2018

First in Future: Explore Elkin Jeff Eidison

Summary:  What makes a small town thrive? Downtowns where people come together to see each other and do things. Their story and what makes their town special, and they’re proud… 

Jul 3, 2018

First in Future: Secretary of North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Larry Hall

Summary: In honor of Independence Day, July 4th, First in Future’s guest is the secretary of North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs, Larry Hall. He is responsible for taking… 

Apr 17, 2018

First in Future: North Carolina State Senators Jay Chaudhuri and Danny Britt

Summary:  A recent survey showed that only a third of millennials consider public service an appropriate career track. A group of young NC legislators want to change that. That’s why… 

Apr 10, 2018

First in Future: North Carolina State Treasure Dale Folwell

Summary:  “Tell the truth, do the right thing, and let the chips fall where they may.” Those are the words that motivate North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell, a man… 

Mar 20, 2018

First in Future: Rural Economic Development Center Board Chair Grant Godwin (Season 2 Premier)

Summary: First in Future begins it’s second season today. Want to know how rural North Carolina’s doing these days? Well, here’s a statistic to think about: Last year, half the… 

Feb 6, 2018

First in Future: Carolina Journal Editor John Hood

Summary: If you’re looking for someone to give you a thorough political summary on the political history of North Carolina and where the Old North State stands in relation to its…