Existing Industry Programs

Durham's economic transformation and success is directly related to the community and region's ability to nurture existing industry and witness its growth and prosperity and to attract new industry to fill niche markets and community needs.  In recent years, the community and the region have increased their support to existing industry. 

In fact, in the past two years, the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce has restructured its operation to include a new Director of Economic Development, whose main role is to work directly with existing industry on an ongoing basis.  The Vice President of Economic Development also works with existing industry to complement the efforts of the Director. 

Durham's Existing Industry Program is a collaborative effort including the City of Durham, Durham County and the State of North Carolina to provide a continuum of assistance to existing businesses.  Moreover, the Durham Chamber is working to better connect business and the local universities to promote the exchange of intellectual property.  This will allow businesses to upgrade their intellectual capabilities and  allow Durham to continue its successful transition to a knowledge-based economy.

To better assist companies, the Durham Chamber of Commerce has upgraded its Business Resources Guide for use by new and existing industry.  In addition, the Chamber's regional partner in economic development, the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, prepared and distributed to its partners an interactive CD that provides businesses with a wide array of contact and support information.