Lenoir County Development Alliance unveils strategic plan for economic growth

The Lenoir County Development Alliance unveiled its new economic development strategic plan Monday during a lunch event at the Aviation Center for Excellence at Lenoir Community College.

The event, held from noon to 1:30 p.m. Aug. 17, brought together media partners, local leaders and community stakeholders for the official debut of the alliance’s plan, developed with MRB Group. The theme, “Ready to take flight,” carried through the program, with attendees receiving boarding pass-style materials outlining the group’s mission, vision and event agenda.

Austin Rouse, Director of Business Recruitment
Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Inc.

The Lenoir County Development Alliance was formed in 2025 by combining Lenoir County Government and the Lenoir County Committee of 100 into a single public-private partnership. Its mission is to grow Lenoir County’s industrial economy through site development, business recruitment and expansion of existing industries.

Speakers Trey Cash, Austin Rouse and Cheyenne Steria outlined the alliance’s direction and the work ahead. The strategic plan focuses on four main areas: site development, shell buildings, marketing and communications, and funding.

Steria said the plan is designed around clear steps and timelines, including an eight-quarter action plan to help guide implementation.

She also emphasized the importance of communication as part of the strategy, saying public awareness and community engagement will be key to moving the plan forward.

Cash, the Chief Operating Officer for the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, said the alliance’s work is about more than land, buildings and recruiting companies. He said the effort is ultimately about creating opportunities for Lenoir County residents to build their futures at home.

“We have a very proud history,” Cash said. “But I don’t want you to mistake being proud of our history for being satisfied with our future.”

Cash said the alliance will focus on preparing industrial sites, securing land options and developing opportunities before asking the private sector to help fund specific projects.

“When we come to you, it’s not just an idea. It’s an opportunity,” Cash said.

The alliance’s vision statement says Lenoir County will be recognized as a leading destination for industrial development in eastern North Carolina, supported by strong leadership, prepared sites and coordinated partnerships.

The event also highlighted the alliance’s new website, growlenoircounty.com, and encouraged attendees to follow the organization’s work as it begins implementing the plan.

Cash closed by calling on the community to stay engaged, ask questions and hold the alliance accountable as it works to position Lenoir County for future industrial growth.

“We have a destination,” Cash said. “We have a plan.”