2025 PROGRAM OF WORK
OUR MISSION
To initiate, influence, engage and empower community leadership to create economic growth and prosperity for all.
OUR VISION
BY 2030 WE WILL...
BE THE TOP MID-SIZE CITY IN THE SOUTHEAST
We will encourage accelerated growth through strategic recruitment and expansion efforts while advancing our entrepreneurial ecosystem.
BE A MORE EQUITABLE COMMUNITY
We will use education initiatives and community partnerships to increase economic equity and mobility for all Forsyth County residents.
BE THE BEST PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY
We will work with our community partners to ensure a high quality of life and access to world class amenities in order to attract and retain the best talent.
AS WE WORK TOWARDS OUR 2030 VISION, ANNUAL PROGRESS IN EACH OF THE ORGANIZATION’S DIVISIONS IS CRITICAL TO LONG-TERM SUCCESS. TOGETHER, WE CAN REACH THESE GOALS BY FOCUSING ON KEY AREAS AND DELIVERING A HIGH LEVEL OF IMPACT IN THOSE AREAS. EACH OF THESE GOALS WILL HAVE DETAILED INTERNAL STRATEGIES IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED OUTCOMES.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
VISION
All area businesses will see Greater Winston-Salem Inc. as the primary business support organization for their needs at any stage.
Winston-Salem will be seen as the best place to start and scale a company.
The national site consultant community will know that Forsyth County is a great option to locate and grow a business.
GOALS
Announce 400 new jobs through recruitment and expansion efforts.
Complete 100 employer retention visits to ensure existing employer needs are addressed.
Refine and advance entrepreneur recruitment strategy and efforts with methods informed by the Entreprenurial Ecosystem Strategic Planning Process.
TALENT & WORKFORCE
VISION
Through Forsyth Works, Greater Winston-Salem Inc. will be known for workforce development programming and support by and for the entire community.
Greater Winston-Salem Inc. will help develop the next generation of workforce and community leaders while working to retain local talent.
GOALS
Have at least 100 students complete ASPIRE credential/internship program.
Continue to provide career exploration opportunities to high school students through World of Work, Senior Academy, and ASPIRE.
Provide at least 25 high quality workforce preparedness events through Forsyth Works reaching specifically underserved areas of our community.
Expand Emerging Leaders programming.
AWARENESS & MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
VISION
Greater Winston-Salem Inc. will be known as the leading economic development entity and Chamber of Commerce for Forsyth County, and Winston-Salem will be known as a desireable option for talent in key markets.
TACTICS
Provide a variety of high-quality opportunities for engagement and value for our members.
Continuously evaluate membership benefits and ensure members are aware of them.
Increase brand awareness and ad engagement in key talent markets and increase direct leads for economic development projects through ad placements and outreach.
Continue to produce high-quality events, while developing and implementing new opportunities.
Implement strategic member recruitment and retention strategies to grow overall membership and revenue.
Continue providing support services for small businesses through our entrepreneurial ecosystem partners.
Elevate groups and committees including Ambassadors, referral groups, and Winston Under 40.
PUBLIC POLICY
VISION
Greater Winston-Salem Inc. will be known as the voice for the business community in Forsyth County.
GOALS AND TACTICS
Effectively engage in local advocacy and community partnerships.
Assist in signing up 50 entities for police camera system to ensure a safe business environment.
Effectively advocate for Greater Winston-Salem Inc. Strategic Priorities: Tax, Tort, and Fiscal Reform, Infrastructure Improvement, and Talent and Workforce Development.
ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS
VISION
Greater Winston-Salem Inc. will demonstrate outstanding performance in operations, financial management, and team development while continuously striving to exceed our Chamber of the Year standard of excellence.
GOALS
Meet board approved budgeted spending & financial plan.
Ensure continued growth of team through professional development opportunities.
Guide visionary planning discussions for the future of Winston Salem and surrounding area.
Respond to other challenges that arise facing the business community.
THANK YOU TO OUR INVESTORS
VISIONARY
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
Novant Health
Reynolds American Inc.
Truist
Wells Fargo
PLATINUM
Bethany Medical
City of Winston-Salem
Cook Medical
Flow Automotive
Forsyth County
Forsyth Tech
Front Street Capital Hanesbrands, Inc.
Kelly Office Solutions
Mercedes-Benz of Winston-Salem
Quality Oil Company
Truliant Federal Credit Union
Twin City Development Foundation
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP