News & Media

Iredell EDC Joins The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Delegation At The SelectUSA Investment Summit


Iredell EDC participated in a delegation with Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina at the SelectUSA Investment Summit held May 3–6 in Washington, D.C., joining economic development leaders, global companies, and federal partners to strengthen North Carolina’s international recruitment strategy and highlight the state’s competitive advantages for foreign direct investment (FDI). Governor Josh Stein and Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley participated in Select USA and played a highly visible role in advancing the state’s economic development priorities. Both leaders took part in high-level project meetings, media interviews, and networking receptions, helping to elevate North Carolina’s profile on a global stage. Additionally, Governor Stein spoke on a Governor’s Panel where he discussed North Carolina’s economic competitiveness and how the state attracts global investments.

Governor Stein explained that N.C.’s position as the top state for business, workforce development, and economic development comes from a commitment to collaboration. Several companies currently evaluating U.S. expansion leveraged SelectUSA as an opportunity to meet directly with North Carolina’s top leadership, reinforcing the state’s commitment to partnership, responsiveness, and executive

The SelectUSA Summit remains the premier U.S. event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment, attracting thousands of attendees from across the globe. This year’s convening emphasized relationship-building with international companies actively exploring U.S. expansion, as well as those already established and considering growth opportunities. For Iredell EDC, participation alongside the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) and economic development organizations across the state enabled direct engagement with site selectors, investors, and corporate decision-makers representing key industries such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, clean energy, and life sciences. These conversations reinforced North Carolina’s reputation as a top-tier destination for business, driven by its skilled workforce, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment.

Throughout the summit, North Carolina stood out as a leader in economic growth and workforce development.

  • Top-ranked business climate, frequently recognized nationally for pro-business policies
  • Strong workforce pipeline, supported by universities, community colleges, and customized training programs
  • Strategic East Coast location, offering access to major markets and ports
  • Robust infrastructure, including transportation networks and utilities ready to support industrial growth

Iredell County’s story reinforced the strength of the Charlotte Region and complemented the statewide message, with its proximity to Charlotte, strong manufacturing base, skilled workforce and continued focus on workforce training and skills development, and quality-of-life advantages positioning it as an ideal location for expanding companies.

  • Global manufacturers are increasingly seeking U.S. locations to enhance supply chain resilience. North Carolina—and regions like Iredell County—are well-positioned to capture this demand due to existing industry clusters and workforce readiness.
  • Companies are actively evaluating reshoring or nearshoring strategies. The U.S. Southeast, including North Carolina, continues to benefit from this shift, offering cost competitiveness and logistical advantages.
  • Access to talent remains the top priority for investors. Conversations consistently emphasized the importance of training programs, partnerships with educational institutions, and workforce adaptability.
  • Investors are increasingly prioritizing locations that support sustainability goals. North Carolina’s investments in energy infrastructure and commitment to clean energy solutions were highlighted as key assets.
  • Face-to-face engagement at SelectUSA reinforced the importance of relationship-building in securing long-term investment. Many discussions initiated at the summit are expected to continue in the coming months through follow-up visits and project development.

Participation in SelectUSA provides Iredell EDC with valuable exposure to international prospects and strengthens its alignment with statewide recruitment efforts. This year marks the third consecutive year that Iredell EDC has participated in Select USA. The connections made during the summit are expected to translate into future site visits, project leads, and potential announcements.In collaboration with EDPNC, Iredell EDC will continue to position the county as a competitive destination for foreign investment—leveraging its strategic location, available sites, and strong talent pipeline to attract high-quality jobs and capital investment.

As global competition for investment intensifies, events like SelectUSA play a crucial role in ensuring North Carolina—and communities like Iredell County—remain front-of-mind for decision-makers. The delegation’s participation underscores a shared commitment to proactive outreach, collaboration, and long-term economic growth.