Loss of income is linked to increased vulnerability to disease, unhealthy behaviors, and adverse health outcomes associated with poverty. Unemployment leads to disparities in health insurance coverage, limiting access to medical attention and medication.  2022 NC SHIP, pg. 32. 

North Carolina needs a plan that “incorporates strategies to build a more resilient economy by focusing on rural communities and equitable, inclusive practices.”

“Typical state economic development plans traditionally focus on issues such as industry recruitment strategies, incentives to encourage business expansion and relocation, support for the development of industrial properties, and state tax policies – all very important activities…. Every business survey conducted – nationally and in-state – identifies acquiring and growing the right talent as a crucial factor. The ability to find high-quality employees is essential to a business’s success. It is also what enables individuals and communities to advance their economic situation – making it the single most important issue to ensure North Carolina’s competitiveness.”

“The North Carolina Department of Commerce outlines three goals to guide the state’s strategy:
1. Prepare North Carolina’s workforce for career and entrepreneurial success.
2. Prepare North Carolina’s businesses for success by growing and attracting a talented workforce.
3. Prepare communities across North Carolina to be more competitive in growing and attracting a talented workforce and businesses.”

2022 NC SHIP, pg. 34

• Access to broadband internet
• Address collective impact of structural racism
• Expand transit options in rural and low-income communities
• Focus on investing in businesses owned by women and people of color
• Improve educational outcomes/increase participation in post-secondary education
• Improve personal finance credit scores and access to financial capital
• Increase access to affordable personal vehicles
• Increase access to affordable childcare
• Increase percentage of jobs that pay a living wage: look at health careers
• Increase workforce development efforts - target those who need it most
• Invest in the entrepreneurial population
• Recognize that opioid epidemic contributes to people not passing employer drug screens
• Seek a national health insurance/service program: An Economic Bill of Rights for the 21st Century
• Shift funding from industrial recruitment to support of small businesses and social enterprises
• Support “fair-chance” hiring policies
• Support economic opportunities that provide full-time employment and grow local businesses

American Community Survey (US Census)

• Availability Job Training Programs
• Minority Owned Businesses
• Financial Counseling/Wealth Building for Minorities
• Child Care Subsidy Assistance
• Post-secondary education support
• Distribution of broad-band internet