Business Community

The Belk College enjoys close ties to the Charlotte business community. As a key component of its mission, the College strives to develop and maintain programs that support the economic competitiveness and the development of the greater Charlotte region and the state of North Carolina. Additionally, the College is committed to developing leadership and management skills in the regional workforce through its academic programs, executive education and seminars.

Highlights of the Belk College’s programs include:

UNC Charlotte Economic Forecast

This quarterly report, directed by Dr. John Connaughton, provides data on economic performance and projections for the State of North Carolina. . Read the latest forecast...

The Center for Real Estate at UNC Charlotte

Led by Dr. Steven Ott, the Center is a resource for research on topics important to the real estate industry. Find out more...

Community Partnerships

The Belk College is a frequent collaborator with business and community organizations, including:

Economic Impact Studies

Belk College faculty have conducted major economic impact studies for regional organizations, including the N.C. Motorsports Association, the Arts and Science Council of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, the Charlotte Chamber and a professional sports franchise.

Charlotte Chamber Partnerships

The Belk College has collaborated with the Charlotte Chamber on a variety of special events and projects over the years. Currently, faculty and students from the Belk College are working with the Chamber to develop ethical guidelines that can be used by small companies that may not have the expertise to create their own.

Special Events

The Belk College frequently co-sponsors events of interest to the local business community, including art exhibits, guest speakers, panel discussions, professional education seminars and awards programs.

Specialized Research

Belk College faculty members conduct research on behalf of local and national companies and organizations. Clients of note have included TIAA-CREF, the Carolinas Association of General Contractors, and the North Carolina State Banking Commission.

Executive Education

Belk College faculty teach courses each year to accountants, attorneys and business executives through the University’s continuing professional education (CPE) series. Additionally, the Belk College has developed special seminars and workshops for corporations and organizations, such as TIAA-CREF, Bank of America, American Express and Food Lion.