Cabarrus EDC Hosts Annual Summit

Community leaders celebrate entrepreneurs, existing industry and new investment

Cabarrus County leaders gathered Thursday evening to celebrate the efforts of the Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation (EDC) in supporting entrepreneurs, existing industry and new investment.

Interim Executive Director W. Brian Hiatt shared an update on the work of the EDC over the last year. The organization, a local non-profit with both public and private investors, serves as a catalyst for local entrepreneurial activity through programming in partnership with the Flywheel Foundation at the Cabarrus Center in downtown Concord. The team works with other partners to promote the development of the local workforce, grow existing business and serve as the clearinghouse for nearly 200 inquiries from companies considering investment in Cabarrus County.

John Loyack, Vice President of Economic Development for the North Carolina Community College System, delivered the keynote address, “Workforce Development is Economic Development.” He congratulated the Cabarrus EDC and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College on their partnership in addressing business needs while providing the training necessary for residents to improve their earning potential.

Scott Lampe, President, Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions, also shared an update on the investment and job growth at Hendrick Motorsports, one of Cabarrus County’s stalwart existing businesses. Lampe highlighted the pivot made from building race cars to building armored troop carriers in partnership with General Motors, averting a layoff of nearly 100 employees and instead growing an additional 150 jobs.

Ten Tenths at Charlotte Motor Speedway hosted the event.

The Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation (Cabarrus EDC) makes a measurable impact on individuals and families through partnerships that support local startups, existing businesses, and the recruitment of new industry to Cabarrus County.