This event is open to Greater Raleigh Chamber members only. Day 1: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Day 2: 9 a.m. - Noon Annual Leadership Conference 2025 The Annual Leadership Conference is where business leaders, government officials, and community decision-makers come together to shape the future of North Carolina. This year’s event will focus on key economic, policy, and infrastructure trends that impact businesses and communities. Attendees will hear from experts on workforce development, business growth, and major regional projects. Sponsorship does not include hotel accommodations. Tentative Agenda Day 1: Tuesday, August 26 11 a.m. – Registration Opens + Networking 11:30 a.m. – Lunch Buffet 12:30 p.m.– Opening Remarks
12:35 p.m. – Introduction to Session 1 12:40 p.m. – Session 1: One Triangle, Two MSAs: What’s at Stake? This session unpacks how the federal government defines Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) and what that means for our region. Raleigh-Cary and Durham-Chapel Hill are currently designated as separate metros. We’ll explore how these classifications impact funding, infrastructure planning, and workforce strategies. Can the metros be combined, and if so, what would it take?
1:30 p.m. – Building Health for Tomorrow: The UNC–Duke Children’s Hospital Collaboration 1:45 pm. – Introduction to Session 2 1:50 p.m. – Session 2: Housing Access & Regional Growth This discussion explores how housing access impacts workforce, infrastructure, and economic mobility—and invites attendee feedback to help guide the Region’s advocacy on sustainable, inclusive development strategies.
2:40 p.m. – Break 3:10 p.m. – Introduction to Session 3 3:15 p.m. – Session 3: Federal Policy in Motion: Key Issues for Leaders With new legislation and regulations emerging, staying informed is key. This session provides a timely look at federal priorities impacting the business community—from tax and trade to labor and regulation. Discover what’s on the horizon in Washington and how organizations can adapt, advocate, and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
4:05 p.m. – North Hills Next: Expanding Raleigh’s Live-Work-Play Destination
4:20 p.m. – Presenting Sponsor Presentation
4:25 p.m. – Introduction to Session 4 4:30 p.m. – Session 4: Inside the Statehouse: Legislative Trends and Regional Impact From infrastructure and education to economic development, North Carolina’s legislative agenda plays a key role in shaping the state’s direction. This update clarifies current state initiatives and legislative outlooks, giving attendees a practical understanding of how policy decisions will impact their regions and industries.
5:20 p.m. – Closing Remarks
5:30 p.m. – Reception Begins 7 p.m. – Reception Ends/Dinner on Own Day 2: Wednesday, August 27 Breakfast on Own 9 a.m. – Opening Remarks
9:15 a.m. – Session 1: Metropolitan Travel, Traffic, and Transit This session highlights the top priorities of the Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) – the voice of the regional business community on transportation – including freeway improvements, a regional BRT network, and an ongoing RDU runway and airport infrastructure initiative which remains the organization’s top strategic priority.
10:05 a.m. – Break 10:30 a.m. – Introduction to Session 2 10:35 a.m. – Session 2: Future Focused: Shaping What’s Next for the Triangle This closing session explores how regional leaders are addressing interconnected challenges—housing, workforce, infrastructure, and more. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways to help support the Triangle’s continued growth, development, and long-term success. 11:25 a.m. – Closing Remarks/Conference Ends
The Beaufort Hotel is currently fully booked. If anyone is still in need of accommodations, we are recommending the following nearby options: Inlet Inn 601 Front Street, Beaufort, NC 28516 (252) 728-3600 Approximately 2.2 miles from the Beaufort Hotel Bask Hotel 814 Shepard Street, Morehead City, NC 28557 (252) 499-9200 Approximately 5.9 miles from the Beaufort Hotel No refunds after August 12. Questions? For questions about the agenda, call 919.664.7037 or email Devin Brown. For logistics questions, call 919.664.7080 or email Taylor Sullivan. For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales. For sponsorship information, email sales@raleighchamber.org. Join the conversation on social media! @raleighchamber #RaleighALC25