Greater Winston-Salem Inc. invites our members and community to gain insights on North Carolina’s leading issues while hearing from North Carolina Governor Josh Stein at the State of the Economy presented by Reynolds American Inc.

State of the Economy
Tuesday, April 22 | 11:30am-1:00pm | Benton Convention Center

Assuming office in 2025, Governor Stein serves as North Carolina’s chief executive and is tasked by the constitution with faithfully carrying out the laws of the state. He is ex officio commander in chief of the North Carolina National Guard and director of the state budget.

In his previous elected office as Attorney General, Governor Stein and his team have cleared the nation’s largest backlog of untested rape kits, tackled the opioid and fentanyl crises, and defended people’s fundamental freedoms. As Governor, Stein aims to bring people together to help western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene, create economic opportunity for all North Carolinians, invest in public schools, and keep people safe.

Governor Stein will provide remarks on North Carolina’s economic opportunities, business advantages, and workforce growth, followed by a Q&A moderated by Mark Owens, President and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem Inc.

At the State of the Economy, Mark Owens will also provide remarks on Winston-Salem’s strategies for building the talent pipeline through education and workforce opportunities, attracting investment from companies looking to locate here, and supporting the growth of existing industries.

“We’re honored to provide our business community an opportunity to hear from our state’s highest executive leader,” says Mike Lancaster, President and CEO of Blum Construction and Greater Winston-Salem Inc. board chair. “We are excited to welcome Governor Stein to Winston-Salem and Forsyth County to see our industry successes and growth potential. Additionally, we appreciate the support of Reynolds American Inc. and our sponsors, and look forward to highlighting the 150th anniversary of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company during this special event.”

The State of the Economy is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Reynolds American Inc. This year, one of its subsidiary operating companies, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, turns 150, dating back to its founding in Winston in 1875.

This event is also made possible by Supporting Sponsor Allegacy Federal Credit Union, Gold Sponsor Wake Forest University, and Floral Sponsor Truliant Federal Credit Union. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.