More News

2025 State of the Community to bring together powerhouse leaders and advocates

By Staff Report, posted 9 months ago
Graphic provided by Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Fayetteville Chamber presents the 2025 State of the Community, an event bringing together regional leaders, policymakers, business executives, nonprofit voices and engaged citizens for strategic conversations about the future of Fayetteville and Cumberland County. This event is a key platform for collaboration, community insight and collective action spotlighting critical issues and bold ideas that shape the region’s progress.

This year’s State of the Community will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Crown Exposition Center.

Confirmed Speakers include: U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, U.S. Representative David Rouzer (NC District 7), Kirk deViere, Chair, Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, Mayor Mitch Colvin, City of Fayetteville, Mike Nagowski, CEO, Cape Fear Valley Health, Stanley Wearden, President, Methodist University, David Zeitz, President, Longleaf Pine Realtors

This forum examines the region’s top priorities from economic growth and workforce development to healthcare, infrastructure and military-community partnerships. Attendees will hear directly from leaders shaping policy and progress across sectors.

“Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder, whether an elected official, small business owner, educator, or community advocate has a seat at the table,” said President & CEO of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber Nat Robertson in a press release. “This is where collective leadership meets actionable vision.”

Seating is limited. For event table purchase and/or sponsorship details, please contact: Jordan Sturgis events@faybiz.com

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Empowering Veterans: The 2026 Fayetteville Veterans Business Expo aims to close the opportunity gap

This is the first year of the Veteran Business Expo, and it grew out of Fayetteville PWC’s Economic Impact Program, which focuses on expanding access and opportunity in public-sector contracting while strengthening the local economy. It builds off th


Bee-lieve the hype: Local apiarists and entrepreneurs share handmade crafts and helpful knowledge about our most important pollinators

Lynlene Apiary and Crafts is owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Carolyn Kleinert and Jolene Kleinert. They are certified apiarists and sell honey, candles made with beeswax, soaps and other crafts at local farmers markets. Photos by GFBJ.Lynle


The Hive of Hope Mills is open for business: Big T's serves as anchor tenant

Big T’s has been a local favorite of Hope Mills since 2000 when Timmy (Big T) and Donna Gray first opened right on Hope Mills Lake. It is a seasonal restaurant, so many of Big T’s loyal customers were happy to hear they would now be open year-round, seven days a week.