69% TOWARD GOAL WITH STRONG COMMUNITY BACKING

Bold Initiative Will Unite Public and Private Sectors to
Attract Talent, Create Jobs, and Expand Opportunities Across the Region

SMITHFIELD, NC – The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce announced that its Triangle East Prospers campaign has officially surpassed the $900,000 mark—representing 69% of the $1.3 million goal to fund a five-year, public-private initiative focused on regional economic prosperity.

A total of 31 investors have stepped forward to support the campaign, including top-tier contributors such as the State of North Carolina, AdVenture Development, Barbetta, First Citizens Bank of Smithfield, Local70, Duke Energy, Gateway Engineers, Home Masters Termite and Pest Solutions, KS Bank, Partners Commercial Realty (Teresa Daughtry), Armstrong Law Firm, P.A., The Fleming Family, and UNC Health Johnston among many others.

"This accomplishment reflects the incredible spirit and vision of our region," added Marcia Armstrong, Campaign Co-Chair. "Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to invest in our shared future. There’s still time to be part of this important effort, and we welcome new investors to help us cross the finish line."

The campaign, which was publicly launched on March 12 at the Selma Civic Center, is scheduled to transition to implementation on June 1, 2025. While fundraising will continue, campaign leaders expressed confidence that the final goal is well within reach.

"Reaching the $900 thousand milestone is a powerful testament to the commitment of our community," said Kevin Dougherty, Campaign Co-Chair. "We are deeply grateful to all who have invested so far, and we warmly invite others to join us in achieving the final $1.3 million goal. The future of Triangle East is bright, and together we can make it even brighter."

Designed to address critical regional challenges—including workforce shortages, barriers to talent attraction and retention, and limited resources for business expansion—the Triangle East Prospers initiative aims to develop talent, break down systemic barriers, and grow jobs and investment throughout Johnston County and the broader Triangle East region.

An independent economic impact analysis conducted by Dr. Michael L. Walden projects substantial returns for the region:

• Support for the filling of 402 open jobs

• Creation of over $28.7 million in new labor income and $18.1 million in new disposable personal income annually

• A 60% increase in childcare capacity, directly improving workforce participation

• Stimulate 313 individuals re-entering the workforce

• Generation of $22.4 million in new labor income and $14.1 million in new disposable personal income through expanded childcare access

• Combined creation of $19 million in new annual tax revenue at the local, state, and federal levels

"The impact of this initiative will be transformational," said Maureen McGuinness, President & CEO of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. "Triangle East Prospers is projected to generate tens of millions of dollars in new income, fill hundreds of jobs, expand access to childcare, and inject nearly $19 million in new tax revenue into our communities each year. These results will strengthen our workforce, empower families, and create lasting prosperity across Johnston County and the entire Triangle East region."

The first investor meeting will be in person on Aug. 12. This kickoff session will offer investors a comprehensive update on the initiative’s trajectory, leadership responsibilities and what to expect in the year ahead.

The chamber will continue fundraising throughout the implementation phase, offering new and returning investors the opportunity to strengthen the initiative’s foundation and expand its regional impact. There is still time to join this initiative and help accelerate its momentum as the region prepares for program rollouts.

To learn more about the campaign or to make an investment, visit www.triangleeastchamber.com or contact Campaign Director Sean Carroll at scarroll@gopower10.com.