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NCEDA 2026 Fall Conference, presented by Alliance Consulting Engineers

October 19, 2026 - October 20, 2026

Description


BUILDING THE FUTURE

The future isn’t something we wait for. It’s something we build.

Join NCEDA in Asheville for the 2026 Fall Conference: Building the Future, where North Carolina’s economic development community will come together to explore the strategies, partnerships, and investments shaping our state’s next chapter.

From building a competitive advantage and preparing communities for industrial investment to developing a future-ready workforce and strengthening relationships with local leaders, we’ll focus on the work that makes growth possible. Make plans to join us in Asheville - we can’t wait to see you there!

Build your knowledge. Build your network. Build your community’s advantage.

CONFERENCE DETAILS

The conference schedule is posted below for planning purposes, and the agenda will be posted later. Attire for the full conference is business casual.

Monday, October 19

  • Optional Activities (Afternoon)
  • Connector's Network Reception for New Members and Emerging Execs (5:15 - 6 pm)
  • Welcoming Reception (6 - 7:30 pm)
  • After Hours Karaoke (8 - 11 pm)

Tuesday, October 21

  • Breakfast (7:30 - 8:30 am)
  • Conference General Session (8:30 am – 12:30 pm)
  • Luncheon and Keynote Presentation (12:30 – 2 pm)
  • Adjourn (2 pm)

LODGING DETAILS

  • Renaissance Block (Main Hotel)
    • Dates Available: Night of October 19 (limited rooms also available for October 18 and 20 for those arriving early or staying late)
      Note: The reservation page defaults to check-in on October 15 and check-out on October 24 as they are honoring our group rate three days pre and post conference — be sure to adjust your check-in/out dates as needed!!
    • Rate: $204/night++
    • Cutoff Date: September 27, 2026 (block will likely fill very quickly!)
    • Reservation Link: NCEDA Renaissance Resort Block (or call Marriott Reservations at 800.468.3571 and request the NCEDA Block or Group Code NCENCEA.)

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNTIES

North Carolina’s economic future isn’t going to build itself, and we want you on the construction crew!

Sponsoring the 2026 Fall Conference is a chance to put your organization on the job site alongside the people shaping North Carolina’s economic future. Whether you’re looking to build brand awareness, strengthen relationships, showcase your expertise, or support the economic development professionals working across our state, there’s a sponsorship opportunity for you.

Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $2,500. Explore the 2026 Fall Conference Sponsorship Opportunities to find the level that’s right for your organization, and contact Liz Dobbins-Smith with any questions or to confirm your support.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!


Location

Renaissance Asheville Hotel
31 Woodfin Street
Asheville, NC 28801

Pricing

GENERAL REGISTRATION OPTIONS

  • Member Registration: $525 ($425 early bird rate valid through October 2)
  • Emerging Executives Member Registration: $375 ($275 early bird rate valid through October 2)
  • Retiree Member Registration: $275
  • Student Member Registration: $25
  • Non-Member Registration: $975 ($875 early bird rate valid through October 2)
  • Spouse / Personal Guest Registration: $100 (includes Monday evening reception only)

OPTIONAL REGISTRATION SELECTIONS / ACTIVITIES

There will be an opportunity for table-top exhibits. Please select the 'exhibitor' option under 'Additional Items".

Monday, October 19 Activities:

  • Golf Outing at the Asheville Municipal Course: $45 (tee times starting at 11 am - 9 holes only!)
  • Fly Fishing Excursion: $175 (Noon - 4 pm, limited to 10 participants)
  • River Arts District Tour and Art Experience: $50 (1 - 4 pm, limited to 10 participants)
  • E-Bike Tour of Downtown Asheville $85 (1:30 - 4 pm, limited to 15 participants)
  • Asheville Botanical Gardens Nature Walk: $35 (2 - 4 pm)
  • Highland Brewery Tour: $25 (2:30 - 4 pm, limited to 24 participants)
  • French Broad Chocolates Bean to Bar Factory Tour: $20 (3 - 4 pm, limited to 25 participants)

Tuesday, October 20 Activity:

  • Group Walk/Run: no fee (6 - 7 am)

EARLY BIRD PRICING AND CANCELLATION POLICY

Registrations submitted by Friday, October 2 are eligible for the early bird registration rate, a $100 savings. NCEDA member and non-member rates increase $100 if submitted after Friday, October 3.

Refunds can be made (minus a $25 processing fee), if cancellations are received by Friday, October 2 at 5 pm. For cancellations, please call 888.246.2332 or email liz@nceda.org. No refunds will be granted after October 2.

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Contact Information

NCEDA
Name: Liz Dobbins-Smith
Phone: 888.246.2332
Email: liz@nceda.org

Click the "See More" link above to view all event details, including the presentation and sponsorship opportunities! 

To register, please enter your email address below and click the "Go" button to the right of the email address box. If you are a member of NCEDA, this will allow you to select one of the member registration options, and all of your contact information will auto-populate to make the registration process easier.

  • If you are a colleague of an NCEDA member and are registering them for the event, be sure to enter THEIR email address. This is the only way our system recognizes the membership and allows you to select the discounted member registration option.
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