Wilkes EDC’s President, LeeAnn Nixon, attended the 2025 SelectUSA Investment Summit with the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) team. The Summit took place May 19–22, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.
The 2025 Summit was the largest in its history, drawing over 5,500 attendees, including 1,100+ economic development representatives from all 54 U.S. states and territories, and more than 2,700 international delegates representing over 100 global markets. Over four days, the event featured inspiring panels, major investment announcements, startup pitches, and state showcases, ultimately sparking nearly $1 billion in new investments expected to benefit American communities and generate jobs.
As part of the EDPNC team, LeeAnn engaged with international investors, business leaders, and economic developers at the state booth. This provided a valuable opportunity to market Wilkes County’s prime assets, including available properties like the former Lowe’s Corporate Facility in Wilkesboro, and to highlight the region’s strong business climate and competitive advantages. These conversations support Wilkes EDC’s ongoing recruitment and retention efforts.
The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s mission aligns closely with Wilkes EDC’s commitment to improving the economic well-being of North Carolinians by attracting new businesses, supporting existing employers, assisting companies with international trade, counseling startups, and promoting North Carolina as a prime business and tourism destination.
Wilkes EDC values its continued partnership with EDPNC and its International Business Development team, which plays a vital role in connecting North Carolina’s communities with global investment opportunities.
To learn more about EDPNC and their work, visit Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.