Advantage Carolina was launched in 1999 by the Charlotte Chamber as a separate 501c3 after a thorough economic analysis which engaged more than 400 business, government and non-profit leaders. Fourteen key initiatives, with focuses ranging from inner city development to education, were launched. Successes included:

BusinessFirst Charlotte, a retention program supported by the Charlotte Chamber and the City of Charlotte that utilizes volunteers to interview Charlotte businesses regarding the issues that impact their success.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Development Corporation, which has helped transform several challenged areas in Charlotte.

Tech Connect, a program in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools that provided technology training for students.

National Marketing, which helped attract new relocation prospects.

Support of CMS Taskforce (now MeckEd), a supportive force for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.

Support for bid for NASCAR Hall of Fame

In 2006, Advantage Carolina was restructured after a study clarified roles and created efficiencies between the Charlotte Regional Partnership (CRP), the Charlotte Chamber and Advantage Carolina. Advantage Carolina refocused on strategy rather than managing initiatives. The paid executive director was replaced by a loaned executive from the Charlotte Chamber. The board was decreased from 20 to nine, with five appointed by the Chamber and four appointed by the CRP. Fund management and fiscal responsibility were moved to the Foundation For The Carolinas. Four key focus areas were identified: Economic Development, Regionalism, Inner City Development and Education. While no longer managing initiatives, under the new format Advantage Carolina has provided financial support for initiatives including:

Business Committee for Regional Transportation Solutions (BCRTS) IntraRegional Collaboration Forum, through the CRP

Aquatic Center Feasability Study

Feasibility Study to Replicate National Center for Arts & Techonology’s Programs

Charlotte Regional Indicators Project

Charlotte Mecklenburg School’s Leaders for Tomorrow

Charlotte Regional Partnership’s Film Commission Study

Carolina Thread Trail, Lincolnton support