The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance® is one of the top regional economic development organizations across the country, according to a new survey of U.S. corporate executives and site selection consultants released this week at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference in Dallas.
The CLT Alliance ranked No. 3 “best in class” regional economic development agency, according to the site selection consultants who participated in the survey. It’s a repeat strong performance for the CLT Alliance which ranked No. 3 in 2020, the last time the survey was completed.
“We’re thrilled to once again be recognized among the nation’s best-in-class regional economic development organizations,” CLT Alliance President and CEO Janet LaBar said. “Economic development is a team sport, and this recognition is a testament to our strong collaboration with partners to drive intentional, sustainable, and equitable growth across the Charlotte Region. Without question, business is better here.”
Conducted by Development Counsellors International (DCI) every three years, the “Winning Strategies in Economic Development Marketing” survey has tracked trends in economic development since its inception in 1996.
This year’s survey reveals that economic development organizations (EDOs) should prioritize their “digital front doors.” Corporate executives’ perceived value of an EDO’s internet and website presence is at an all-time high (76%) since the study’s inception in 1996, when just 18% rated it as a valuable tactic.
“One of the most decisive findings from this year’s Winning Strategies study is that communities shouldn’t underestimate the significance of their website strategy and digital media presence,” Julie Curtin, president of DCI’s economic development practice, said. “When it comes down to a community’s key differentiators, perceptions about a place are deeply rooted in relationships, trust and accurate data in the form of tailored, two-way communication with decision makers.”
Formed in 2018 through the merger of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and the Charlotte Regional Partnership, today’s CLT Alliance is the voice of business for the City of Charlotte and the 14-county, bi-state region. It is the only regional economic development organization that grows the economy, advocates for businesses, and convenes diverse stakeholders. Its mission is to enthusiastically collaborate to promote and advance the Charlotte Region creating opportunity, economic growth, and prosperity for all.
