The Latest
A Conversation with Samantha Cole, North Carolina’s First Child Care Business Liaison
Child care access is a top concern for North Carolina employers looking to attract and retain a talented workforce. To help bridge this gap is Samantha Cole, the new Child Care Business Liaison at the NC Department of Commerce. She brings a wealth of experience in economic development, communications, and community relationship building. Samantha, a parent herself, understands firsthand the challenges families face in finding reliable, affordable child care. Since joining the Commerce team in April 2023, she has been connecting business leaders with solutions that make sense…
Business Smart: The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina
As the leading economic development organization in our state, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) supports and counsels businesses, l…HR Leaders: Four Tips for a Successful Open Enrollment Season
We know that Open Enrollment season can overwhelm employers and employees. That’s why we gathered insights from North Carolina-based benefits and HR experts who share their recommendations for a smoother, more effective enrollment process. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get through Open Enrollment — it’s to help employees make the best choices for their health and finances while maximizing the value of your company’s benefits. 1. Be transparent about changes Shawn Straub, president and founder of ALT HR Partners, emphasizes the importance of clear communication abou…
Business Smart: Thompson Traders
Location: Greensboro Number of Employees: 30 As a family-owned business with a strong focus on work-life balance, Thompson Traders has prioritized creating a suppo…How Employers Can Identify and Support Employees Experiencing Domestic Violence
Domestic violence doesn’t just stay at home—it can follow victims into the workplace, affecting their performance, safety, and well-being. One in 4 women and one in 10 men experience domestic violence in their lifetime (CDC). As an employer, it’s essential to understand how domestic violence can manifest and what workplace policies you can implement to support victims. Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used to gain or maintain power and control over a partner. This can include physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological abuse. By recognizing the warning signs and understan…Tips to Support Breastfeeding Employees in Your Workplace
The federal Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) for Nursing Mothers Act has been in effect since December 2022. It’s important for employers to not only comply with the law, but to also create an inclusive workplace culture where breastfeeding is valued. When leadership and managers exhibit positive, accepting attitudes, the workforce recognizes they need to do so as well. Here are some tips and information for creating a breastfeeding-friendly workplace: Know what is required by law. Understand the rights of lactating employees and get answers to f…Family Forward NC is Expanding
Learn More about Community Level Certification Information Sessions on August 13 and August 15 Join the movement to create thriving, family-friendly workplaces! The North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation (NCECF) invites you to lead a Family Forward NC® Community Certification campaign. Family Forward NC® Community Certification is an opportunity for coalitions, workgroups, partnerships, and alliances that are interested in boosting local economic sustainability by creating a family-friendly business base. A community can be an individual municipal…
Business Smart: Brooks Pierce
Location: Greensboro, Wilmington, and Raleigh Number of employees: 197 When Shannon DeGennaro started her job at North Carolina law firm Brooks Pierce, she was preg…
Business Smart: Pocket Prep
Locations: Durham, NC and Seattle, WA Number of employees: 31 Heidi Baggerman and Devin Brooks understand what it’s like being new parents, from the joys of tha…