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Winston-Salem - Collaborations Print E-mail

Because the region's assets are dispersed across numerous cities and counties, the area has developed collaborative approaches to economic development, transportation planning, entrepreneurship, leadership development, land conservation, and public and governmental affairs.

Groups working to harness the power of the region include:

Technology Council
As part of the Greater Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce, the goal of the Technology Council is to promote collaboration among companies in the technology industry, educational institutions, and business community. With representatives from more than 350 high-tech companies and organizations, the council and its four committees offer an open forum for technology organizations. Further, the council coordinates efforts, improves communication, and brings the region together as a technology center. The council's key action areas are:

Education and Workforce Development
The council pulls together businesses and area educational institutions to help create a system that nurtures the workforce. The council's efforts include an ongoing assessment of the needs for training programs to ensure a workforce that has the critical technology-based skills to support business growth in the area's key technology industries.

Networking Events
A key component in attracting and retaining a highly skilled and motivated technology workforce is fostering an environment that supports networking and collaboration. Through seminars, lecturers, and social activities, the council creates opportunities in which those engaged in technology industries can meet, share ideas, and form professional relationships.

Technology Issues
Technology-based companies may be an emerging part of the area's economy, but they're also very different from traditional industries. The council works to educate local and state officials on the unique requirements of technology companies and the issues that impact them the most.

Public Relations
The council has the primary responsibility to promote Winston-Salem's technology initiatives by placing stories with regional and national media representatives that will enhance the city's image as a center for technology. The council also sponsors an annual technology briefing for local media, elected officials, and community leaders.