Natalie Hawkins, President of the Moore County Economic Development Partnership (MCEDP), was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Natalie will serve a three-year term on the board.
With over 900 members, NCEDA and its members lead efforts to promote North Carolina as an ideal destination for business investment, recruit new investments to the state and support the growth of existing businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.
NCEDA supports its members through a broad range of professional education and training, association networking opportunities and advocacy of their interests through collaboration with the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the North Carolina Department of Commerce and state legislators.
“I am honored the nominating committee of past NCEDA presidents selected me to represent my profession on the board,” said Hawkins in a press release. “I look forward to serving and giving back to an association that has benefited me and my organization in so many ways since I joined MCEDP in 2021.”
Members of NCEDA include professional economic developers at the local, regional, and state levels, as well as professionals in allied fields, such as architects, commercial real estate developers, utility company representatives and academics.
“NCEDA members play a vital role in ensuring a strong and healthy state economy. Supporting the association’s efforts to increase the knowledge of members across the state and advocate for legislation that supports local economic developers is critical to our future success. I am excited to take on this leadership role and am grateful for the confidence instilled in me by my peers,” Hawkins continued in a press release.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
