Sampson County Economic Development (SCED) recently announced the launch of Sampson 360, a new program, forum and platform designed to inform, connect and unite leaders from across Sampson County in support of long-term economic growth and community vitality.

Sampson 360 will present events convened and presented by Sampson County Economic Development featuring curated speaker events, seminars and educational programs focused on economic growth, community vitality and long-term competitiveness.

This initiative is designed to bring together leaders from business, government, agribusiness, education, healthcare, nonprofits and the broader community to encourage collaboration, shared understanding and strategic action.

“Sampson 360 reflects our belief that strong connections and informed leadership are essential to economic success,” said Chuck Spell, chair of the Sampson County Economic Development Advisory Board, in a press release. “By bringing diverse voices to the table and providing a 360-degree perspective on opportunities and challenges, we can better align our efforts as we work together to move Sampson County forward.”

Through Sampson 360 events, participants will learn, connect and collaborate to examine current challenges, anticipate future trends and develop strategies that drive economic growth, competitiveness and community vitality. This program is designed to foster cross-sector dialogue, knowledge-sharing and coordinated action that supports the long-term prosperity and resilience of Sampson County and its residents.

“Sampson 360 is an important step in strengthening communication and collaboration across Sampson County,” said Allen McLamb, chair of the Sampson County Board of Commissioners, in a press release. 

The inaugural Sampson 360 event, “Trends to Watch: Preparing Sampson County for Tomorrow’s Economy,” will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at Heritage Hall, Sampson County Exposition Center, 414 Warsaw Road, Clinton, NC 28328. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and the program begins at 12:00 p.m. The event will feature Ted Abernathy, a nationally recognized expert in workforce and economic development, as the keynote speaker.

Attendees will gain actionable insights on key trends shaping Sampson County’s economic landscape over the next 5–10 years, including workforce development, emerging technologies, entrepreneurial growth, industrial and commercial infrastructure, energy and power considerations, societal shifts affecting quality of life and economic competitiveness in a changing national and global context. Topics will also include the implications of artificial intelligence and automation, U.S. industrial policy and using data analytics to guide economic development strategies.

“This session is a must-attend for anyone invested in Sampson County’s economic future,” said SCED Director Ray Jordan in a press release. “Participants will leave equipped with strategies to develop and retain a competitive workforce, attract and grow businesses, prepare infrastructure and sites for future investment, leverage data-driven insights, and strengthen regional collaboration.”

This event is open to the public. Tickets may be purchased online at www.sampsonedc.com and will be available through Feb. 3, 2026, or until sold out.