Economic Development Archives

On the Porch: Rhonda Jean – Technology Trajectory

Posted by Aaron Johnson | Apr 12, 2026 | On The Porch

This Week:

Rhonda Jean is the founder of Nearby Nearby, a local discovery platform built specifically for rural communities. After struggling to find accurate, up-to-date information when she moved to Pittsboro, North Carolina, Rhonda began building tools that make it easier to discover nearby businesses, events, parks, trails, and community resources all in one place. Nearby Nearby shows results based on what’s actually nearby, using location and community-verified information rather than paid ads. Rhonda is a rural innovator and community advocate focused on strengthening local economies, civic pride, and community resilience through better access to local information.

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Sarah Potter on Chapel Hill’s Business Preparation on Banana Ball — On Air Today (Apr. 10, 2026)

Posted by Brighton McConnell | Apr 10, 2026 | On Air Today (PM)

Town of Chapel Hill Business Vitality Manager Sarah Potter joins 97.9 The Hill News Director Brighton McConnell on Friday, Apr. 10.

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On the Porch: Rachael Newberry – NC IDEA

Posted by Aaron Johnson | Mar 8, 2026 | On The Porch

This Week:

Rachael Newberry has deep experience leading innovation programs and technology-based economic development initiatives in partnership with organizations like RIoT, NC IDEA, and municipal government leaders. Rachael launched the RIoT Accelerator Program in 2018, leading growth to six locations and advising 160+ startups that have created 500+ jobs and generated more than $150 Million in revenue. Rachael also acts as a liaison between public and private sector partners to spur collaboration in the smart cities space and support entrepreneurial ecosystem development. Previously, Rachael built and ran a behavioral science-focused startup program at Duke University (though she is a proud UNC alum), where her work was featured at Google and in Forbes and Inc. Magazine.

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French Manufacturer Shares Plans to Relocate U.S. Operations to Hillsborough

Posted by Brighton McConnell | Nov 28, 2025 | Business, Local Government, State

Gov. Josh Stein’s office shared the French manufacturing company CITEL is planning on relocating its U.S. business to Hillsborough and will invest $12.5 million in the project.

On the Porch: Adam Edelen – Bringing the Promise of Renewable Energy to Rural America

Posted by Aaron Johnson | Aug 17, 2025 | On The Porch

This Week:
Adam Edelen is a dynamic leader with a demonstrated record of success in both the private and public sectors. As founder and CEO of Edelen Renewables, he has garnered significant attention for forming partnerships to pioneer coal-to-solar projects and other green energy developments in struggling energy communities. His firm’s unique Social Impact Solar® approach reflects a deep commitment to economic revitalization and environmental sustainability.

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Our Town: The Story of Economic Development in Chapel Hill

Posted by Staff | May 13, 2025 | Our Town, Sponsored, Town Square

This month, David Putnam and Sarah Potter, tell the story of economic development and their work to support and create a vibrant business community – so that Chapel Hill can thrive now and in the future.

Chapel Hill Tire Announces Opening of its 12th Location: Durham Homestead Market

Posted by Staff | Feb 27, 2025 | Sponsored, Town Square

Chapel Hill Tire, a trusted name in automotive care across the Triangle, is excited to announce the grand opening of its 12th location at 5588 Highgate Rd, Durham, NC. This new store marks another milestone in Chapel Hill Tire’s commitment to providing exceptional auto care and fostering a positive, service-driven experience for customers and employees alike.

Orange County Approves Incentives for Morinaga’s Expansion of HI-CHEW Factory

Posted by Brighton McConnell | Sep 19, 2024 | Business, Instagram, Local Government

The Orange County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $2.9 million tax incentives deal for Morinaga America Foods on Tuesday.

First North Carolina Buc-ee’s Gas Station Location Approved in Mebane

Posted by Brighton McConnell | Jan 18, 2024 | Business, Development, Instagram

After pulling out of its plans to build in Efland in 2021, Bucee’s received approval from Mebane to build its first North Carolina location.

Economic Development

On the Porch: Rhonda Jean – Technology Trajectory

Sarah Potter on Chapel Hill’s Business Preparation on Banana Ball — On Air Today (Apr. 10, 2026)

On the Porch: Rachael Newberry – NC IDEA

Top Stories of 2025: Flash Flooding From Tropical Storm Chantal Damages Region, Changes Lives

French Manufacturer Shares Plans to Relocate U.S. Operations to Hillsborough

Our Town: The Story of Economic Development in Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Tire Announces Opening of its 12th Location: Durham Homestead Market

Orange County Approves Incentives for Morinaga’s Expansion of HI-CHEW Factory

First North Carolina Buc-ee’s Gas Station Location Approved in Mebane

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