Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) and the Defense Alliance of North Carolina (DANC) hosted a collaborative networking event on November 16, 2022, bringing together community and military leaders for a unique opportunity to connect and engage with each other in the Fayetteville and Cumberland County region. The event featured more than 70 attendees, including industry executives, military, academia, large defense company representatives, and veteran-owned small business owners.

“Partnering with FCEDC exemplifies the importance of collaborating toward common objectives to create opportunities for North Carolina in support of our nation’s military,” said Tammy Everett, Executive Director of DANC.

DANC is a private, nonprofit organization focused on strengthening North Carolina’s defense sector and those who support it. The Alliance combines the powerful leadership of distinguished military officers and industry executives, a large and active membership base, and an impressive set of standing forums and events to support North Carolina’s government, military, business, and academic communities.

FCEDC is a public-private partnership designed to enhance job growth and prosperity in the region by attracting new industry and growing and retaining existing industry. FCEDC works daily to help strengthen our economy and diversify our community tax base. Successful projects would not be possible without the ongoing support of the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and community partners. The FCEDC also supports existing companies by facilitating expansions, connecting them with resources, and creating network groups.

FCEDC Executive Vice President Rob Patton said, “We continue to seek ways to connect Fort Bragg, the large defense contractor base, and business leadership within our community. A gathering like this creates cooperation and collaboration, which is important in creating new pathways for working together for Cumberland County residents and the large military community we have here.”

Due to the tremendous success of this event, the two organizations intend to make it an annual gathering for the defense community and business leadership within Fayetteville and Cumberland County. The two organizations thank Charcuterie Chic for the array of hors d’oeuvres and Healy Wholesale for their beverage sponsorship at the event.