Catawba County Economic Development Corp.

📦 Big Moves for the Hickory Metro 🏡 🚛 According to United Van Lines’ 48th Annual National Movers Study, the Hickory Metro ranked #9 nationally among all metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for inbound moves. Even more impressive? We’re 2nd in North Carolina, just behind Wilmington! As Americans increasingly prioritize affordability, proximity to family, and quality of life when deciding where to move, the Hickory Metro's ranking speaks volumes about what makes our community and region special. Whether it’s the charm of our region, the welcoming atmosphere, or the opportunities for families and businesses, more people are choosing to call the Foothills of North Carolina home. 🏠✨ #HickoryMetro #PopulationGrowth #UnitedVanLines #TopMSA #QualityOfLife City of Hickory | Catawba County Government | The Chamber of Catawba County | City of Conover | City of Newton | City of Claremont, NC | Town of Maiden | Town of Catawba

The City of Hickory is strengthening its outdoor economy by expanding recreation opportunities like the 10-miles of City Walk Trails, renowned mountain biking trails, and miles of frontage to Lake Hickory, while supporting businesses that serve outdoor enthusiasts. From clothing and gear manufacturing to kayak production and adventure tourism, Hickory is fostering growth in this thriving sector and promoting pride in "Crafted in Hickory" products. Join the inaugural Outdoor Recreation Business Networking Event on January 30th, 5:30–7:00 PM, at Innovative Ink (391 10th Ave Dr NE). Connect with resources, discover new initiatives, and network with others in the outdoor industry. RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/eUWvdr_u #HickoryNC #OutdoorEconomy #MadeInHickory #OutdoorRecreation

Our Catawba County Economic Development Corp. team had an incredible day at University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where we joined our Charlotte regional ED counterparts for an in-depth look at the university’s unique labs, practical research, and cutting-edge industry partnerships. We were already familiar with impressive resources like the BATT Cave and the Center for Precision Metrology, but this visit truly peeled back the layers on the amazing expertise and widespread opportunities available at this growing R1 university, just an hour from Catawba County. Special thanks to Patrick Lucitt and all the professors, students, deans, and representatives who welcomed us and showcased the incredible work being done across campus. The collaboration and innovation happening here are truly inspiring! #CatawbaCounty #Innovation #IndustryPartnerships #UNCCharlotte #RegionalCollaboration #EconomicDevelopment

The best state for business and living just keeps getting better! 💼🏠 Starting in January, individual income tax rates in North Carolina will drop from 4.5% in 2024 to 4.25% in 2025, with another reduction to 3.99% in 2026. North Carolina’s corporate income tax is also getting a boost (or should we say cut? ✂️). In 2025, the rate will fall from 2.5% to 2.25%, on its way to 0% by 2030. These reductions further strengthen the case for North Carolina as the best location for your business and your life in 2025. 🌱💰 #CatawbaCountyEDC #NorthCarolina #BusinessFriendly #LiveWorkThrive #AllInNC

Friday Fast Fact ⚡ Did you know? 60% of the U.S. population is reachable from Catawba County within a one-day drive! 🚗🛣️ Interstate-40 runs east to west through the county. Interstate-85 is just 30 minutes away via US Highway 321. Interstate-77 is also accessible in 30 minutes via Interstate-40. Catawba County’s strategic location and connectivity make it the perfect place for business and connected supply chains. Learn more about our connectivity here ➡️ https://lnkd.in/eqVmMjpW #transportationnetworks #supplychain #manufacturers #connectivity

🌟 Listening to Local Industry: A Core of Our Mission 🌟 Over the last quarter of 2024, Kimberly Propst, MPA from our team has been busy meeting with and listening to existing companies across Catawba County. These visits are a vital part of the Catawba County Economic Development Corp. mission, helping us stay connected with the needs and challenges of local industries in real time. Kimberly has also been refining her approach to these visits recently to better serve and support our business community. A big thank you to all the companies that opened their doors or joined us for Zoom calls these past few months! Your insights are invaluable as we work together to strengthen Catawba County’s economic future. #BusinessEngagement #CatawbaCountyEDC #BusinessRetention #EconomicDevelopment

Over the past decade, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) has been a true partner, driving incredible growth and opportunity across our state. The team—past and present—embodies dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision for making North Carolina the #1 state for business. Here’s what 10 years of impact looks like: 📈 $67 billion in capital investment 🌍 $10 billion in exports 💼 178,000 jobs created through expansions and recruitment 💡 183,000 small businesses supported To all the amazing EDPNC teammates who have been part of this journey: Thank you for your hard work, friendship, and commitment to making a positive impact. Here’s to continued success in shaping North Carolina’s bright future! #EDPNC10Years #EconomicDevelopment #BestStateForBusiness #PartnershipsMatter

🚀 Catawba County Talent Strategy Kickoff! Last week, the The Chamber of Catawba County's Foundation held the first meeting of the Talent Strategy Steering Committee, bringing together leaders from business, government, education, and nonprofits to shape the future of talent development in Catawba County. With the facilitation of Matt DeVeau (from Broad Ripple Strategies), the kickoff included a high-level look at trends, challenges, and recent survey/focus group insights as we start building a strategic plan for growing, attracting, and retaining talent in the region. At least three more meetings of the Steering Committee are expected, culminating with a strategic roadmap being crafted by late Spring. #TalentStrategy #CatawbaCounty #FutureFocused #TalentDevelopment

At Catawba County Economic Development Corp., we’re always diving into the latest insights to stay ahead in the fast-evolving economic landscape. Here are 3 thought-provoking pieces we’ve been exploring: 1️⃣ The Rising Storm by Lightcast 🌪️ A deep dive into the nation’s demographic challenges—and they’re big ones. 📉 🔗 Read it here: https://lnkd.in/gdwa-Rrj 2️⃣ 2024 US Life Sciences Outlook by CBRE 🧬 North Carolina’s life sciences sector is thriving. Could we position ourselves as a high-quality, low-cost biomanufacturing hub? We think so. 💡 🔗 Read it here: https://lnkd.in/ef4YxPUn 3️⃣ Powering AI ⚡ AI’s demand for electricity is massive. How will utilities and companies keep up with this game-changing tech? ⚙️ 🔗 Read it here: https://lnkd.in/evZSYMB7 What’s on your radar? Share your favorite reads with us in the comments! 📚👇

🎓 Coming Fall 2026: App State’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at the Hickory Campus! 🩺 Starting in Fall 2026, Appalachian State University will welcome its first cohort to the new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, designed to address healthcare provider shortages, especially in rural areas. This hybrid program combines online coursework with intensive clinical training at the Hickory campus, featuring a state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab. Students can specialize in: 1️⃣ Nursing Education 2️⃣ Public/Policy Health 3️⃣ Health Care Administration This exciting addition complements Lenoir-Rhyne University's Bachelor’s and DNP programs and Catawba Valley Community College's Associate-Level Nursing programs, strengthening Catawba County as a hub for healthcare education. 📅 By 2030, the program will enroll 77 students, preparing the next generation of family practice nurse practitioners to make a meaningful impact in our communities. 🌟 #AppState #HickoryCampus #NursingInnovation #HealthcareEducation #FutureNurses