Sampson County has unveiled and adopted a bold new three-year economic development strategic plan designed to tackle pressing challenges and lay the foundation for a more resilient, prosperous future for its residents.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, the Sampson County Board of Commissioners along with Sampson County Economic Development’s Ray Jordan met with the community during a special meeting to learn the ins and outs of their local economy. 

Like many rural communities, Sampson County is navigating key transitions, including shifts in population, evolving residential growth patterns and the need for a more diverse economy. These changes present both challenges and opportunities. The new strategic plan provides a clear, actionable roadmap to build on the county’s strengths, diversify the economy, strengthen infrastructure and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.

The plan also reflects a community-identified goal to foster a forward-looking, collaborative approach to economic growth—safeguarding core values, preserving local traditions and the county's rich agricultural heritage. This balanced approach is designed to benefit both current residents and future generations.

The planning process was led by the team at Creative Economic Development Consulting, under the leadership of Crystal Morphis, and guided by a nine-member Steering Committee who met frequently over five months. Developed through broad collaboration, the plan outlines five strategic goals including:

• Connect Sampson County, Municipalities, and Businesses to Advance Community and Economic Development.
• Facilitate the Retention, Development, and Attraction of Talent.
• Create New Opportunities for Business Development by Expanding Sites and Buildings.
• Attract, Retain, Scale, and Support Start-Up Businesses that will Expand Job Opportunities.
• Elevate the Economic Development Organization to be a Leader Southeast North Carolina.

“From residents and business leaders to public officials and community stakeholders, many contributed their input to the creation of this plan,” said Allen McLamb, Chair of the Sampson County Board of Commissioners. “More than 400 citizens shared their perspectives, helping us craft a shared vision to create opportunities that will benefit Sampson County residents.”

As part of this process, Sampson County also adopted new Vision and Mission Statements for Sampson County Economic Development to guide future efforts:

• Vision Statement: A prosperous future powered by strategic partnerships, where economic growth enhances quality of life and preserves the unique character of our community.
• Mission Statement: To drive sustainable economic growth by retaining and attracting businesses, supporting entrepreneurship, expanding community capacity, and promoting the county as a vibrant place to live, work, and invest.

By tracking progress and remaining adaptable to changing economic conditions, the strategic plan will help coordinate resources, guide investments, and build a stronger, more resilient Sampson County for generations to come. Implementation will be led by Sampson County Economic Development and supported through broad collaboration among public, private, and nonprofit partners.

For more information about the Sampson County Strategic Plan, please visit: https://www.sampsonedc.com/sampson-county-launches-strategic-plan-to-drive-economic-growth-and-community-resilience/