Raleigh Chamber Launches EDGE 7, 5-Year Economic Development Strategy and Campaign

Today, the Raleigh Chamber announced its new 5-year economic development strategy, EDGE 7.

Every five years, the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce develops a comprehensive economic development strategy that is informed by past successes, current circumstances, and future opportunities.

The EDGE 7 campaign enters its public phase today, having raised $4.68 million, which is 67% of the $7 million goal. This campaign continues a long tradition of impact in the Triangle region.

This new strategy, titled “Building a Competitive Future,” is focused on creating an ecosystem in which people, communities, and companies can thrive.

EDGE is the funding mechanism that supports the Raleigh Chambers’ economic development strategy that is implemented across several of the Chamber’s programs including Wake County Economic Development, Raleigh Economic Development, and the Chamber’s Government Affairs department.

Over the last 30 years, previous EDGE campaigns have fueled the success of Wake County and have had a transformational impact on the broader Research Triangle Region. Past successes include the recruitment of the Carolina Hurricanes, the reopening of Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh, and the announcement of more than $6.14 billion in new capital investment and nearly 34,000 jobs since 2010 alone.

EDGE 6 saw record-breaking success for the Raleigh Chamber, with Wake County Economic Development announcing 37 projects, generating $5.6 billion in planned capital investment and 10,800 jobs.

EDGE 7 was developed in response to several critical challenges facing Wake County and the Research Triangle Region including infrastructure, the development of an advanced technology industrial ecosystem, economic mobility & opportunity, and managing success. EDGE 7 will support a comprehensive response to these challenges and ensure Wake County is a future-ready community prepared and poised to capitalize on economic opportunities.

The impact of the 5-Year Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy will be realized across Wake County and the Research Triangle region through several outcomes over the next five years. Markers of success include $3 billion in new capital investment, and more than 60,000 new jobs (direct and indirect).

Several notable business and community leaders have lent their support and voice to the campaign, with Barbara Griffith, MD, President of Duke Raleigh Hospital, and Kevin McLaughlin, Vice President of Government Affairs and External Relations for Duke Energy, serving as co-chairs.

Full details of the strategic plan including specific tactics, campaign leadership, and testimonials can be viewed online here. Companies that would like to learn more about the strategic plan, and how they can be a part of Building A Competitive Future, can contact the Raleigh Chamber here.

Contact: Haley Waxman

Strategic Marketing Manager, Wake County Economic Development

hwaxman@raleighchamber.org