The North Carolina Economic Developers Association (NCEDA) partnered with the UNC School of Government to prepare this publication as a basic introduction to economic development. It is offered as an educational resource for legislators, policymakers, community leaders, and interested citizens across the state who desire to keep North Carolina competitive in its quest for new jobs and investment. Economic development is not always well understood, but this handbook provides essential information about how the process works; the participants involved; and the various strategies, tools, and programs available to those involved in economic development efforts.

This publication is posted as a free PDF on the School’s website and on the NCEDA site: www.nceda.org.