W ILMINGT ON B IZ C ONFERENC E & EXPO wilmingtonbiz.comSeptember 16-29, 2022, Vol. 23, No. 18 $2.00 MADE to order Find out MADEwinnerstheofthisyear’sAwards Page 24 MADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington Gang brewery news The latest on TRU Colors Greekwilmingtonbiz.comflavor Eatery offers upscale fare Page Local43 outlook Regional economist to share his take Page 6 Index In Profile 6 Technology 32 Hospitality 33 Real Estate 36 The List 40 Economic Indicators 41 Business of Life 42-43 EXCLUSIVEWEB SUBSCRIBE TO THE BUSINESS JOURNAL NOW WilmingtonBiz.com/subscribeATYoursubscriptionincludes:•Unlimitedaccess to stories on WilmingtonBiz.com • Bimonthly Business Journals, quarterly WilmingtonBiz Magazine and the annual Book on Business mailed to your office or home in January • At least 20 extra IQ points with your added business knowledge! SUBSCRIBE NOW KEYNOTE LUNCH FEATURING ANNUAL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK PROGRAM FROM UNCW’S SWAIN CENTER. JOIN US FOR A LOOK BACK AND A LOOK AHEAD WITH A NATIONAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIST, OUR REGIONAL ECONOMIST AND A PANEL OF LOCAL LEADERS WHO REPRESENT SOME OF OUR REGION’S BIGGEST ECONOMIC DRIVERS. 12 FREE SEMINARS,STRATEGYINCLUDING: YOUR PLAYBOOKTHELEADINGCHAOSSCALINGCULTURE,BUSINESS’EVOLVEDUPWITHLESS&INDUSTRYPROFITABILITYBUSINESSOWNER THE REGION’S CONFERENCEBUSINESS-TO-BUSINESSLARGEST 100+ MADEEXHIBITORSAWARDSWINNERSLARGESTANNUALWILMINGTONBIZAFTERHOURSPARTY 4:30 - 5:30 pm PRODUCED BY PRESENTING SPONSORS OCTOBER 6 11:00AM - 5:30PM WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER 2022 KEYNOTE LUNCH 11:00 am - 1:30 pm EXPO HALL 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm STRATEGY SEMINARS 1:45 pm - 4:30 pm MADE SPONSOR
Connecting the Carolinas Cloud Technology 877.678.3739 www.cloudwyze.com Business Internet IT Management Business Phone IT Security
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Gain access to a team of technology experts who care about the success of your business with CloudWyze. You can do what you do best and leave the technology to us.
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“T his year, the team at Excite Credit Union is celebrating 70 years of service. How better to celebrate our commitment to serving our community than by spotlighting businesses in the Cape Fear Region! As a community-based cooperative, we believe that when you support local businesses, you support local families, and when you support local families, communities thrive. We’re proud to again sponsor the WilmingtonBiz Expo and MADE Awards, and look forward to connecting with you!”
e’re thrilled to partner with the Greater Wilmington Business Journal to shine a light on the Cape Fear Region’s 8th Annual Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week once again. This free weeklong series of events coordinated by the Wilmington Chamber recognizes and celebrates the achievements of minority entrepreneurs across southeastern North Carolina and provides more than 30 opportunities for education and networking to expand and strengthen businesses. Please learnenterprise-development-med-weekwilmingtonchamber.org/minority-visittomore.”
NATALIE ofWilmingtonPresidentENGLISH&CEO,ChamberCommerce
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The Economic Outlook Conference is an annual conference for the business community to engage with speakers and gain information about the current and pro jected national and regional economy.
“10 years ago, we partnered with the Wilmington Business Journal to help launch CloudWyze and we are grateful for the continued relationship we have with them and with this community. It is this foundation of partnerships that helped us set the stage for what has evolved to become our evergrowing mission to help communities across eastern North Carolina. Whether bringing IT solutions to local businesses or high-speed access across an entire county, the team at CloudWyze is here to make a positive and lasting impact. Reach out today to learn more about how we use technology to help empower you and your business. Be great Wilmington!”
SHAUN CloudWyzePresidentOLSEN&CEO,
“C ape Fear Solar Systems is on a mission to empower our region to live better by making it easy and affordable for home and business owners to go solar. It’s our vision to spread positive energy throughout our local communities with teamwork, integrity and excellence. Being part of Wilmington’s business community is such a privilege, and we are grateful to have been serving our region with clean energy solutions for over 15 years.”
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wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 3 W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
OCTOBER 6 WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER
KEYNOTE LUNCH: $45 (INCLUDES EXPO HALL ADMISSION)
ROBERT PARKER COO, Caper Fear Solar Systems
ABOUT OUR SPONSORS
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wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 5 CODE: FREEPRE-REGISTERExpo2022FORNOW! LEARN MORE AND REGISTER NOW AT: WILMINGTONBIZEXPO.COM
WILMINGTON
BUSINESS STRATEGY
107
1:45 pm - 4:30 pm SEMINARS
OUTSOURCING
Featuring 100+ exhibitors and winners of our MADE competition. Meet and connect with potential clients, vendors and employees - All in one day.
WILMINGTONBIZus inside the Expo Hall
In partnership with UNCW’s Economic Outlook Economic Outlook: Going Places
Free strategy seminars on the latest topics critical to business ROOM ROOM
success ROOM 105 ROOM 106
IT? CRUCIAL QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR IT PROVIDER ABOUT CYBERSECURITY & DATA PRIVACY EQUIPPING TALENT: WHAT YOUR FUTURE LEADERS WANT THE BUSINESS OWNER PLAYBOOK CHEERLEADERSHIP: STRATEGIES TO DRIVE POSITIVE CULTURE, COLLABORATION & BUSINESS IMPACT 2:45-3:30PM WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND YOUR BUSINESS? YOUR CULTURE,BUSINESS’EVOLVED SCALING UP WITH LESS CHAOS & INDUSTRY LEADING PROFITABILITY ATTRACTING & RETAINING EMPLOYEES IN TODAY’S LABOR MARKET 3:45-4:30PM WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND YOUR HOME? PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS: INCOME GENERATION STRATEGIES PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS: CYBERSECURITY IN PRACTICE HOW TO WIN THE WAR ON TALENT
1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
108 1:45-2:30PM
EXPO HALL OPEN
CONVENTION CENTER
AFTER HOURS 4:30pm
11 am - 1:30 LUNCH
Tracking local trends: Mouhcine Guettabi, regional economist who is based at UNCW, will speak Oct. 6 at the WilmingtonBiz Conference & Expo.
“It’s always nice to get students who haven’t thought about eco nomic concepts and try to kind of pitch those concepts to them and see sometimes the light bulb come on,” he said. “That’s a cool moment.”
state government derives 90% of its revenue, according to Guettabi –crashed in 2014. During that fallout, he similarly worked with lawmakers to address economic questions insti gated by dramatic budget deficits.
A combination of the Cape Fear region’s professional perks and its quality of life brought him back across the country to the Universi ty of North Carolina Wilmington. “Being in slightly different weather – warmer weather – was also super appealing,” Guettabi said.
mility about the limits of economic forecasting and knowledge.”
Economist studies what makes region ‘tick’ KEYNOTE
The economic program provided bountiful fodder for Guettabi to research. Published in various reputa ble academic journals, Guettabi’s and his colleagues’ work addressed poten tial causal themes of the program, in cluding its effect on crime, childhood obesity, labor force participation and employment. “The work was really challenging,” Guettabi said of his past few years of research into the program’s effects. “It was this kind of all-encompassing, broad agenda.”
Pressure to analyze the program mounted after oil prices – which generate a tax by which the Alaskan
A central question, at least to Guettabi, emerged from studying the unique program. “As a govern ment, if you only have a dollar,” he said, should it allocate that dollar to a social program or directly to the
PHOTO BY MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER
NATIONAL EXPERT TO SPEAK
“I’m a regional economist by training, meaning my field is regional economics, which is a field that is very much in touch with what makes small places tick, and how does space affect economic decisions by people and by businesses,” he said.
Guettabi officially started with UNCW in August 2021 but took over the reins from previous regional economist Adam Jones, who spent seven years in the role, this spring, according to a university spokesper son. Jones, who is now chair of the economics and finance department, said Guettabi is a welcome addition to UNCW, the Cameron School of Business and the community.
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
“Dr. Guettabi is an excellent re gional economist and brings a wealth of knowledge with him, especially his experience with economic de velopment and its effect on existing residents,” Jones said. “Importantly, he brings a combination of expertise, self-confidence and a sense of hu
By now, Mouhcine Guettabi is used to moving thousands of miles to establish new roots. He first did it when he headed to Edmond, Oklahoma, to attend the University of Central Oklahoma on a tennis scholarship, after growing up in Morocco.Afterfinishing his studies, earn ing a doctorate in economics with an emphasis on urban and regional economics from Oklahoma State University, Guettabi made his second major jump to Anchorage, Alaska. He spent about a decade there, where he was most recently an associate professor of economics for the Uni versity of Alaska Anchorage.
individual?“Thattension between government programs and government spending and the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend has become very, very apparent as a result of fiscal stress,” he Insaid.recent years, Guettabi has had papers published on a range of topics, including the economic effects of commercial fisheries, stand-yourground laws, the housing market collapse and more. The freedom to research topics of his choice is a draw that lured him to the field, he said.
Sometimes, Guettabi said the line of questioning to determine what he researches involves considering whether the results would be pub lishable. But also, “a non-negligible portion of my job here is to think about applied questions as well – so not necessarily ones that are going to lead to an academic publication but are potentially going to help the community or the government or businesses understand the communi ty a little bit better.”
In Alaska, Guettabi frequently testified before the Alaska Legisla ture and worked with lawmakers, often addressing the high-interest Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend, a program that gives residents $1,500 annually regardless of income. “It’s the closest example to universal basic income that we have,” Guettabi said.
Distilling complex data or topics for wide audiences is a “natural ex tension” of how he thinks, Guettabi said. This semester, he’s doing just that as a professor for two courses of principles of microeconomics.
Financial markets expert Brian Daley will speak Oct. 6 at the WilmingtonBiz Conference & Expo. Daley is a managing director and head of equity strategy for Bank of America Corporation’s Chief Investment Office. This office offers “thought lead ership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solu tions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics,” according to the firm. Daley has previously worked at Conifer Securities, Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Villanova University.
Guettabi will speak about area economic trends Oct. 6 at the Wilm ingtonBiz Conference & Expo.
The role as UNCW’s new regional economist appears perfectly suited for Guettabi’s skill sets and inter ests: it entails teaching, independent research, and notably, frequent public engagement. In Alaska, Guettabi said he had grown accustomed to giv ing between 30 and 40 talks annually on a variety of economic topics.
“Obviously, we’re limited by data availability and timeliness and a bunch of other factors to try to figure out that nice balance between: Is it interesting? Is it important enough? Can it be answered? And should I be the one trying to answer it?” he said.
So, are unconditional cash trans fers a good thing? “It’s impossible to say,” he said. “It’s still understudied.”
DALEY
BY JOHANNA F. STILL
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 6 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
NATALIE ENGLISH
In his current role, Davis oversees the areas of housing and residence life; student extracurricular organi zations; the Career Center; student physical and behavioral health; par ent and family programs; transition programs; and other student-direct ed services. He operates with a $45 million budget and more than 1,000 staff and student employees.
Jeff Bourk began his position as Wilmington International Airport’s Director on Jan. 3. He has more than 30 years of aviation experi ence, including 20 years focused on airport management.
In
LOWELL DAVIS
In that time he has managed airports that are publicly and privately operated. Before ILM, Bourk served as executive director of Branson Airport in Hollister, Missouri, for 14 years. He was also assistant airport manager at Portland International Jetport for six years and worked in operations management roles for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey at Teterboro Airport.
Brian Clark has served as execu tive director of the N.C. State Ports Authority since January of last year. Under Clark’s leadership, the ports have completed several crit ical infrastructure improvements, including the opening of a new South Gate container complex, the integration of new terminal and gate operating systems, container berth renovations, expansion of the turning basin, air draft im provements and the addition of three neo-Panamax cranes.
Clark is also overseeing the con tainer terminal master plan aimed at increasing the capacity at the Port of Wilmington.
Do you have a successful business that is ready to scale and grow? Learn the ten principles and associated habits that your company needs to grow sustainability and without drama. In this session you will walk away with a checklist and a gameplan that will help you get more of the important work done in your business. You will get simple tools and guidance to keep everyone on the same page, communicating effectively and doing their part to achieve organizational objectives.
VISIT THE BUSINESS GROWERS BOOTH AND RECEIVE YOUR FREE 2022 BUSINESSTOOLBOX.BUILDING
Natalie English has served as president and CEO of the Wilming ton Chamber of Commerce since 2017. She has served as a chamber of commerce executive for over 20 years and is constantly striving for professional growth through speak ing opportunities, leadership posi tions and development of commu nity relationships. Before coming to Wilmington, English spent 11 years at the Charlotte chamber, where she filled the role of chief public policy officer. English received her bache lor’s degree in communications from N.C. State University and achieved her designation as a Certified Cham ber Executive in 2012.
BUSINESS GROWTH LESSONS THAT WORK
Learn the top plays from our Business Owner Playbook that has helped hun dreds of local business owners build more profitable, systematic, team centered, and freedom filled businesses. You will walk away from this session with at least 3 action items that you can immediately implement in your business that will save time and/or make you more money in the next 30 days!
Over the past 17 years, the Business Growers have developed a playbook that has helped hundreds of local business owners navigate business challenges, and grow their businesses at an accelerated rate. At the upcoming WilmingtonBiz Conference & Expo, we will share with you some of the key plays in our playbook that have made a difference to many local business owners over the last couple of decades as well as the issues that they are facing in the current business environment.
Lowell Davis joined the Univer sity of North Carolina Wilmington as vice chancellor for student affairs in May 2021. Before his tenure at UNCW, he held posts at Western Carolina University, the University of Alabama, Indiana University and Hampton University.
SESSION 2:
JEFF BOURK
BIZ EXPO SEMINARS
BRIAN CLARK
KEYNOTE
SESSION 1: The OwnerBusinessPlaybook
Coach Reggie Business Growers Head Coach www.businessgrowers.co
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 7 910-540-7677
Scaling Up with Less Chaos & Industry Leading Profitability
addition to Wilmington’s regional economist and a national bank executive, a panel of local leaders addresses the topic of continued growth for the region during a discussion at the WilmingtonBiz Conference & Expo.
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CRUCIAL QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR IT PROVIDER ABOUT CYBERSECURITY & DATA PRIVACY
SHROPSHIRE
HOW TO WIN THE WAR ON TALENT
AMY CONWAY | HR Consultant, Leath HR
&POSITIVESTRATEGIESCHEERLEADERSHIP:TODRIVECULTURE,COLLABORATIONBUSINESSIMPACT
dom-filled businesses. You will walk away from this session with at least 3 action items that you can immedi ately implement in your business that will save time and/or make you more money in the next 30 days!
ROOM 105
Barrett Earney leads the devel opment of Earney & Company’s Technology Services and also leads Earney Consulting, which is a separate organization from Earney & Company providing IT managed support services to Wilmington businesses.
ROOM 105 ROOM 106 ROOM 107 ROOM 108
Presented by: NICOLE CASE, Partner,LearningCatapultNicoleCaseis a Keynote Career.ertiveLeadershipSpeaker,&ExecuCoach,andFoundofTheUpgraded
GABE AMEY PARKER | Sales Manager, Cape Fear Solar Systems
ROBERT DUGGAN | CPA, CISA, CISSP, Director of Technology Risk Advisory, Earney & Company
Risk Advisory Services for Earney & Company has over 20 years of audit and IT security experience.
CASE
COACH REGGIE | Platinum Master Coach to High Growth Businesses
BECKY DROZDZ | Director of Total Rewards Solutions, Catapult
THE BUSINESS OWNER PLAYBOOK ROOM 107
about where they see themselves growing. Attend this session to be guided through the development of actionable, collaborative performance and career plans that ensure the right talent finds its optimal role. Our de velopment experts will also teach you exciting ways to illuminate learning opportunities alongside your employ ees for greater retention, better per formance and stronger engagement.
1:45-2:30PMSEMINARS
3:45-4:30PM
THE BUSINESS OWNER PLAYBOOK
OUTSOURCING IT? CRUCIAL QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR IT PROVIDER CYBERSECURITYABOUT&DATA PRIVACY
Presented by: COACH REGGIE SHROPSHIRE, Platinum Master Coach to High Growth andextensiveShropshireCoachBusinessesReggiedrawsonpersonalprofessionalex
DUGGAN EARNEY
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 9wilmingtonbiz.com
Your best employees are look ing for advancement opportunities. It’s up to you to determine if that opportunity is at your company –or somewhere else. While it’s more cost- and culture-effective to develop talent internally than it is to recruit, many employers aren’t sure how to start conversations with employees
Presented by: ROBERT DUGGAN, CPA, CISA, CISSP, Director, Technology Risk Advisory, Earney & Company; BARRETT EARNEY, Director of Information Technology, Earney & CompanyRobDuggan leads Technology
WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND YOUR BUSINESS?
WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND YOUR HOME?
STEVE MITCHELL | ICSC, CREP, 2023 President, Cape Fear REALTORS®/Broker, Coldwell Banker Commercial Sun Coast Partners
Would you like to learn some best practices that will make growing your business a whole lot easier and earn significantly more profits? Learn the top plays from our Business Owner Playbook that we have been using for the last 17 years to help local busi ness owners build more profitable, systematic, team-centered and free
STEFANIE ADAMS | Founder, WNY People Development
EA RUTH | GRI, SFR, SRES, 2022 President, Cape Fear REALTORS®/Broker, The Property Shop International Realty
ROBERT PARKER | COO, Cape Fear Solar Systems
1:45-2:30PM
EQUIPPING TALENT: WHAT YOUR FUTURE LEADERS WANT
| Director, Swain Center, Cameron School of Business, UNCW
PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS: CYBERSECURITY IN PRACTICE
perience to ensure that local business owners get the advanced tools and strategies they need to grow their busi nesses and achieve their goals.
2,4,6,8! Want to make your work place really great? Harness the power of CheerleadingCHEER! provides highly ap plicable professional lessons for lead ers in all industries, especially in our
YOUR CULTURE,BUSINESS’EVOLVED
NICOLE CASE | Learning Partner, Catapult
BETHGroup LOONEY | Senior HR Consultant, Leath HR Group
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
BOB PIOUS
ATTRACTING & RETAINING EMPLOYEES IN TODAY’S LABOR MARKET
INVESTMENTS:PORTFOLIO INCOME GENERATION STRATEGIES
CHEERLEADERSHIP: STRATEGIES TO DRIVE POSITIVE CULTURE, COLLABORATION & BUSINESS IMPACT ROOM 108
KATHERINE
BARRETT EARNEY | Director of Information Technology, Earney & Company
2:45-3:30PM
Companies need to ask the right questions to whoever is handing your IT. This session will cover critical elements in the contracting process, the importance of defining whoowns-what, evaluating your service team and controls you need to ensure are in place over systems and data. We will also look at privacy regula tion updates and special consider ations for healthcare, education and financial institutions. Earney & Co. Technology Risk Advisory has a highly experienced and credentialled team serving trusted Coastal Caroli na organizations with a track record of success
SEMINARS
EQUIPPING TALENT: WHAT YOUR FUTURE LEADERS WANT ROOM 106
COACH REGGIE | Platinum Master Coach to High Growth Businesses
SCALING UP WITH LESS CHAOS & INDUSTRY LEADING PROFITABILITY
DANIEL | Founder & Principal, Montani Consulting
JARON CAYTON | President, TeamLogic IT
OUTSOURCING IT?
DROZDZ
PARKER
ADAMS
2:45-3:30PMSEMINARS
Cape Fear Solar Systems and is a NABCEP® PV Certified Solar Installer.
Do you have a successful busi ness that is ready to scale and grow? Learn the 10 principles and associat ed habits that your company needs to grow sustainably and without drama. With a killer strategy and/or heroic employees willing to work 18 hours a day, seven days a week, you might be able to make up for sloppy execution and lack of discipline. Unfortunate ly, that is neither sustainable nor desirable to you or your employees. In this session, you will walk away with a checklist and a game plan that will help you get more of the import ant work done in your business. You will get simple tools and guidance to keep everyone on the same page, communicating effectively and doing their part to achieve organizational objectives.
Presented by: ROBERT PARKER, COO, Cape Fear Solar RobertSystemsParker is a Wilmington native who oversees all commercial installationssolarfor
post-pandemic work environment. Participants will learn simple strat egies to build collaborative teams, drive business impact and generate better work culture; themes include positivity, trust, wellness, adaptabili ty, accountability and inspiration.
WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND YOUR BUSINESS?
for advising companies in the areas of compensation and benchmark data, and tailoring compensation consult ing services to meet the needs of the member. Becky earned her Master of Business Administration from Mary mount University and her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Illinois.
SCALING UP WITH LESS CHAOS AND INDUSTRY LEADING PROFITABILITY ROOM 107
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
an L&D leader, edu cator, elected official, wife and mother; for those who know her best, she is “Cheerleader Stef” which personifies her personality and leader ship style.
YOUR CULTURE,BUSINESS’EVOLVED
Presented by COACH REGGIE, Plat inum Master Coach to High Growth Businesses.
This seminar is ideal for Business Owners, CEOs, COOs, CFOs, Busi ness Advisors, Builders, Commercial Developers and any professional wanting to learn more about the In flation Reduction Act and how it can benefit your business. This session will cover an overview of the Infla tion Reduction Act, clean energy and advantages for businesses.
ATTRACTING & RETAINING EMPLOYEES IN TODAY’S LABOR MARKET ROOM 108
Presented by: STEFANIE ADAMS, Founder, WNY PeopleStefanieDevelopmentAdamsis
Presented by: BECKY DROZDZ, Director of Total primarilyCatapult.TotalisSolutions,RewardsCatapultBeckyDrozdztheDirectorofRewardsforBeckyisresponsible
ROOM 106
Employees are taking their jobs personally. After the last two years of shifting global conditions, mindful working environments that operate with empathy are shaking up what it means to build agile and engaged cultures. What can employers do to craft rewarding employee experienc
es? What measurable steps can you take to inspire belonging within your workplace? During this presenta tion, we’ll teach scalable, actionable methods of building meaningful alliances between your business and your workforce. We’ll also share sneak-peeks of valuable Catapult Survey insights only available to our Members.
It’s been called the Great Resigna tion, the Great Reshuffle, the Great Rethink; it’s clear that the labor market shifted in recent years and is continuing to evolve. The Greater SEMINARS
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Because this is a highly demanded topic, we’ll leave time for Q&A to en sure attendees are able to get answers to questions relevant to their current or future businesses.
ROOM 105
Wilmington Area isn’t immune to this movement’s effects; we do, how ever, have advantages employers can leverage to win the war on talent.
HOW TO WIN THE WAR ON TALENT ROOM 108
LOONEYCONWAY
Bob Pous is currently Director of the Swain Center for Executive Education & Economic Development, Cameron School of Business, UNCW. In addition, he is a long-standing mentor in the School’s Cameron Exec utive Network. His areas of expertise include: leadership development, work force engagement, career strategies, LinkedIn and interviewing skills.
This seminar is ideal for home owners, future homeowners, builders, Realtors and any professional want ing to learn more about the Inflation Reduction Act and how it can benefit homeowners. This session will cover an overview of the Inflation Reduc tion Act, clean energy and advantag es for Becausehomeowners.thisisa highly demanded topic, we’ll leave time for Q&A to en
Join Katherine Daniel, Founder and Principal of Montani Consult ing, along with Bob Pious, Director of the Swain Center for Executive Education & Economic Develop ment at UNCW, for an engaging and practical forty-five minutes!
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 11wilmingtonbiz.com FREEPRE-REGISTERCODE:WilmingtonBizExpo.comExpo2022FORNOW!KEYNOTELUNCH In partnership with UNCW’s Economic Outlook Conference Economic Outlook: Going Places EXPO HALL F eaturing 100+ exhibitors and winners of our MADE competition. Meet and connect with potential clients, vendors, and employees - All in one day. BUSINESSSEMINARSSTRATEGY F ree strategy seminars on the latest topics critical to business success WILMINGTONBIZ AFTER HOURS OCTOBER 6 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER
Ea Ruth offers local expertise for your home buying or investment needs. Over the past 15 years, she has gained exceptional knowledge and experience working in the Real Estate industry.
Presented by: AMY CONWAY, HR Consultant, Leath HR Group; BETH LOONEY, Senior HR Consultant, Leath HRAmyGroupConway is an HR Consultant with Leath HR Group. She spent nearly two decades in Executive and Human Resources Management at Nordstrom and now spends her days as an executive coach and people + culture consultant across industries.
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
Steve Mitchell is a Commercial Real Estate Broker specializing in retail, office and industrial warehouse properties. Before joining Coldwell Banker Commercial Sun Coast Part ners early in 2015, he was the Com mercial Director for KW Commercial in Jacksonville, N.C. He has extensive executive management experience at the CEO, VP and Director levels.
3:45-4:30PMSEMINARS
Presented by: GABE AMEY, Sales Manager, Cape Fear Solar SystemsGabe Amey joined Cape Fear Solar Systems prior to grad uating from UNCW and has held various positions leading up to his current leadership role. He prides himself in providing an accurate solar design and energy forecast.
Join Jaron Cayton, from Team Logic IT to learn how to protect your employees and business data from cyber threats. Jaron will discuss new threats for 2023 and beyond, and how to position your team to meet these challenges head on.
PIOUSDANIEL
Beth Looney is a Senior HR Con sultant with Leath HR Group and has been on staff for three years. She is a nationally certified HR professional with over 20 years of HR experience.
AMEY
Attracting, hiring and retaining talent is something a lot of busi nesses are still struggling with. Why? Because the Talent War is constantly evolving. It’s time to level up and win this war! Join two of Leath HR Group’s Senior Certified HR Pros, Beth Looney and Amy Conway, as they walk through innovative strat egies and tactics to attract the best talent for your business (and keep them)! Learn a few simple, cost-ef fective tips that can help you develop and retain a thriving team. Walk away with tangible tools and a feel ing of confidence - You can Win this War on Talent!
SEMINARS
their IT solutions and internal com munication tools. As a former educa tor, Jaron is skilled at teaching others to be proactive in handling cyberse curity in today’s constantly evolving marketplace.
RUTH MITCHELL
For Katherine Daniel, SHRMSCP, Montani Consulting is the culmination of more than 15 years of experience and success in the human resources and people operations field.
Presented by: KATHERINE DANIEL, Founder and Principal, Montani Consulting; BOB PIOUS, Director, Swain Center for Executive Education & Economic Development, Cameron School of Business, UNCW.
sure attendees are able to get answers to questions relevant to their home, future home or clients.
WHAT DOES THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT MEAN FOR CLEAN ENERGY & YOUR HOME? ROOM 105
Presented by: EA RUTH, GRI, SFR, SRES, 2022 President, Cape Fear REALTORS®/Broker, The Property Shop International Realty; STEVE MITCHELL, ICSC, CREP, 2023 President, Cape Fear REALTORS®/ Broker, Coldwell Banker Commercial Sun Coast Partners
Learn about these practical solu tions addressing employee attraction and retention that won’t break the bank: the fundamentals of an effec tive compensation philosophy, the elements of a successful performance management program and how to build and nourish an intentional organizational culture.
Build a portfolio that generates an income stream for your business through real estate investment. This timely session will review types of real estate investment portfolios, office and commercial, resort and vacation and long-term rentals. Ea and Steve will review the strategies that build wealth and offer tax ben efits and positive income potential. Business owners benefit from mul tiple income streams and real estate is a valuable element of a balanced portfolio. This session is compelling for business owners and individual investors seeking a hedge against a churning market.
CAYTON
PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS –CYBERSECURITY IN PRACTICE ROOM 107
PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS: INCOME GENERATION STRATEGIES ROOM 106
Presented by: JARON CAYTON, executivesbusinessCaytonTeamLogicTeamLogicPresident,ITAspresidentofIT,Jaronconsultswithownersandtoenhance
ALL STAR FLAGS allstarflags.com - All Star Flags stocks many sizes of US Flags, International Flags, State Flags, Military Flags and Historical Flags. They also offer full service installation teams, custom flags, temporary vinyl banners and signage. (Booth 614)
BUSINESS
BRAWLEY brawley.net - Brawley has offices in Wilmington and Raleigh and serves clients across the state and around the country. Brawley offers a unique experience for its partners by bringing together extensive general contracting experience, unmatched ICT service expertise, and seasoned FF&E/interior design skills. (Booth 615)
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
ALPHAGRAPHICS alphagraphics.com – AlphaGraphics is your premier marketing and printing solution, serving the Wilmington market. They are your local visual marketing and communication experts, who truly care about product quality, customer satisfaction and establishing long-term partnerships with their clients. (Booth 415, 416)
9ROUND FITNESS 9round.com – Making members stronger in 30 minutes, physically and mentally. At 9Round, we believe everyone should be able to show up, fight, and find their personal best without anything getting in their way. (Booth 116)
ALLEN + SHARIFF allensharriff.com - Allen + Shariff Engineering, LLC provides Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Technology and renewable energy design and consulting services. (Booth 205)
BLOCKADE RUNNER RESORT blockade-runner.com - Here in Wrightsville Beach, our culture centers around hospitality — it’s just part of the vibe. You’re our guest, but you’re also part of our community. We’re committed to preserving our beautiful waters, and that’s why generations of families have enjoyed coming back to Blockade Runner Beach Resort since 1964. (Booth 511)
CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE SBC cfcc.edu/sbc –The CFCC SBC offers free business seminars and confidential one-onone counseling to those interested in learning more about starting or growing their businesses.
AXIS FITNESS axisfitnesstraining.com - We are here to change your body, to change your relationship with conventional exercise, and to show you that you can smile through your sweat and make yourself proud. (Booth 610, 611)
CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE cfcc.edu - With over 23,000 students enrolling in classes every year, CFCC is a major economic development partner in our area. CFCC is dedicated to providing worldclass workforce training and quality higher education for New Hanover and Pender counties. (Booth 100)
EXHIBITORS
Providing the raw water needed to advance the Lower Cape Fear Region By industrialcommercialresidential,sustainingandgrowth lcfwasa.org
CAPE FEAR PRO WASH capefearprowash.com - Cape Fear Pro Wash is a veteran-owned, familyoperated Wilmington pressure washing company serving the Greater Wilmington, Hampstead, Jacksonville and Leland areas offering services from pressure washing to low pressure roof cleaning. (Booth 104, 105)
BRUNSWICK COMMUNITY COLLEGE SBC education/small-business-center/brunswickcc.edu/continuing-Small Business Centers provide local, experienced counselors as advisers for new and existing businesses. Available on an as-needed basis, this confidential service acts as a sounding board for new ideas and/ or concerns you may have about your business.
Coalition Corridor (Booth 204)
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Coalition Corridor (Booth 201)
CAPE FEAR MUSEUM capefearmuseum.com - Welcoming. Engaging. Meaningful. Cape Fear Museum collects, preserves and interprets objects relating to the history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear. The Museum makes those objects and their interpretation available to the public through educational exhibitions and programs. (Booth 412)
SEMINAR GROWERS businessgrowers.co – Business Growers helps guide entrepreneurs and business owners to greater success with game plans that work and guaranteed systems that have been proven all over the world. (Booth 315, 404)
will help identify your
Want
reach the most a uent local
ELDERHAUS PACE elderhaus.com/pace-programFor adults 55 years of age and
CAPE FEAR SEMINAR SOLAR SYSTEMS
cloudwyze.com - From Day One, our mission at CloudWyze has been to provide our customers with the best possible products and services—to remove any limits to your success that outdated or poorly matched technology can place. We are tech entrepreneurs, trusted by our clients to be at the leading edge of digital communication innovation. (Booth 418, 419, 500, 501)
W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
DESIGNLOUD designloud.com - When you work with us, you get more than expert website design and results-driven marketing strategies – you get a (caffeine-fueled) team dedicated to your (massive) success. (Booth 410, 411)
and reach them with tangible, targeted direct mail. NEW HANOVER | BRUNSWICK | PENDER | ONSLOW | DUPLIN rsvpcapefear.comashley@rsvpcapefear.com (910) 208-9374 1 Non-TD ATMs: For TD Beyond Checking and TD Beyond Savings accounts, fees waived regardless of balance, and non-TD fees, which include any surcharges at the time of your transaction, will be reimbursed when the minimum daily balance in the TD Beyond Checking account and TD Beyond Savings account is at least $2,500. The institution that owns the terminal (or the network) may assess a fee (surcharge) at the time of your transaction, including balance inquiries. 2 Based on 2021 average store hours, excluding drive-thru, of “major banks” in metropolitan statistical areas in which TD Bank operates (TD MSAs). Major banks are top 20 banks by total deposits across TD MSAs, the top five banks by store share (or by total deposits, if store share is equal) in each TD MSA, and any bank with greater or equal store share compared to TD Bank in any TD MSA. Excludes banks operating in retail stores such as grocery stores. Member FDIC, © 2022, TD Bank, N.A. and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. We’ve got it handled. Smiling faces. Free LongerATMs.1hours.2
Greater WilminGton Business Journal wilmingtonbiz.com
CENTURY 21 - JEFF LESLEY wilmingtonstopagent.com - Jeff and his “Dream Team” provide premier expertise for his clients. Operating as an individual agent, Jeff leads his team in providing the necessary support for all of his clients. For sellers, Jeff’s extensive marketing skills help sell the home quickly and for top dollar. (Booth 214)
CLOUDWYZE
EARNEY CONSULTING earneyconsulting.com - Earney Consulting, LLC keeps your IT network reliable and running at peak performance. We give you peace of mind knowing that your data is secure and protected. We deliver custom solutions to the complex problems of today’s information and communication technology environments. (Booth 117)
WE KNOW LOCAL.
CATAPULT SEMINAR letscatapult.org - Catapult’s team of seasoned HR and business professionals help member companies address both immediate and long-term challenges through a library of resources, data-driven insights and expertise, and a dynamic member community. (Booth 607, 608)
(Booth 318, 319, 400, 401)
CONNECT CAPE FEAR connectcapefear.com – Connect Cape Fear is an extensive, trusted and updated list of local organizations, groups, clubs and more in the Greater Cape Fear region. Our goal is to help you find ways to create connections in our community between individuals and organizations. (Booth 618)
EARNEY COMPANY& SEMINAR
earneynet.com - Founded in 1982, Earney & Company, L.L.P. has built a reputation in Wilmington and Southeastern North Carolina as a leading provider of accounting and tax services. Our firm is focused on privately held businesses, their owners, not-for-profits, tax exempts and other community support organizations. (Booth 121)
EXHIBITORS
capefearsolarsystems.com – Cape Fear Solar Systems has been designing and installing solar panel systems on North Carolina homes and businesses since 2007. Our reputation speaks louder than our words.
CAPT’N BILL’S seeyouatbills.com - Capt’n Bill’s is the East Coast’s premier sand volleyball facility with 10 courts. Whether you are a skilled player or just beginning, we offer leagues for all levels. With three bars serving cocktails and an impressive selection of craft beers, and a full kitchen dishing out good eats, we have you covered for a great night out. (Booth 619)
COMPUTER WARRIORS computerwarriors.com – Computer Warriors is an industry leader for computers, laptops, PC, Macbook, iPhone, iPad and Samsung repair. We believe that getting your device repaired should be a fast and painless process. (Booth 504)
EDWARD JONES –MATTHEW STOWE advisor/matthew-stoweedwardjones.com/us-en-financial- As an Edward Jones financial advisor, it is vastly more important to me to understand the dreams and goals you have chosen to invest your time in. I became a financial advisor because I saw an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the individuals, families and businesses I serve. (Booth 303)
CAPE FEAR
Need new prospects? to homeowners? RSVP best local prospects,
CORNING CREDIT UNION corningcu.org – Corning Credit Union is committed to helping our members prosper by being a trusted resource and advisor for financial services. (Booth 402, 403)
EXCITE CREDIT UNION excitecu.org - Excite Credit Union was created for you — your needs, your desires, your real-life situation. Established in 1952, Excite Credit Union is a memberowned, financial cooperative serving more than 40,000 members.
hawthornesearch.com - Based on the Atlantic Coast in Wilmington, Hawthorne Search has been a leading player in the recruitment of leadingedge talent, across multiple industries with a focus on game changing senior leaders. (Booth 210)
HEALTH BEGINS FROM WITHIN healthbfw.com – HBFW offers a complete range of aromatherapy
essential oils and products. (Booth 314)
JOHNNYLUKES KITCHENBAR
GENESIS BLOCK genesisblockilm.com - Genesis Block was created with the idea that each community needs a place to collaborate, create, discuss ideas and gather. Building the small business ecosystem and supporting community collaboration is our goal in each neighborhood.
MATTHEWS MOTORS
FOCUS BROADBAND focusbroadband.com - A broadband driven company, FOCUS Broadband’s mission is to provide the very best high-speed internet connection to residents and businesses in the communities it serves. FOCUS Broadband offers a variety of communications services delivered over our next-generation 100% fiber optic network to each address. (Booth 304)
johnnylukeskb.com - Good eats, good drinks and great times is what JohnnyLukes KitchenBar is all about! JohnnyLukes KitchenBar serves Wilmington a variety of 19 craft beers on tap, a hand selected eclectic wine list, fun cocktails and of course exceptional food! (Booth 715)
KELLER WILLIAMS kbtrealtygroup.com - KBT Realty Group is a top-performing KELLER WILLIAMS® team in Wilmington North Carolina and is affiliated with Keller Williams Realty, Inc. – the #1 Real Estate Company in the world. We have buyers ready to purchase their next home, and we negotiate the best deals on our listings. (Booth 503)
GREATER BUSINESSWILMINGTONJOURNAL
LEATH GROUPHR
EXECUTIVEHAWTHORNESEARCH
HONEY HEAD FILMS honeyheadfilms.com – Honey Head Films is a boutique, full-service, female production company putting a narrative spin on the creative world. They are a company with a clear focus on making independent cinema more accessible. (Booth 405)
Coalition Corridor (Booth 202)
lcfwasa.org - Our purpose is to provide a reliable and dependable surface water supply as cost-effective as possible through economy of scale while operating on sound fiscal and utility principles. (Booth 307)
older Elderhaus PACE presents an alternative to nursing home care. Elderhaus promotes safe independent living in the community and quality of life. Our skilled team of interdisciplinary health professionals provide support in the home, community and day center. (Booth 407)
KBT REALTY SERVICES
LALA & ELM lalaandelm.com - Lala & Elm is dedicated to bringing beauty and wellness without compromise to all ages along with eco-luxe accessories for coastal living at its best. (Booth 310)
ur mission is creating and protecting ownership and opportunity for all, especially people of color, women, rural residents and low-wealth families and communities. We can’t do this work alone. Our depositors, investors and partners make our impact possible. Join us. Together, we can expand economic opportunity for all. O 307 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28403 www.self-help.org 800.966.7353 CMYCYMYCMYMCK Wilma AD_BW_FA.pdf 1 9/7/2022 11:35:37 AM W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
matthewsmotorswilmington.comMatthews Motors is a premium fullEXHIBITORS
(Booth 518, 519, 600, 601)
SEMINAR leathhrgroup.com – Leath HR Group realizes that often times businesses have HR resources that are constrained or non-existent. We bring HR leadership to your team and let you focus on running the business, be it in the tech, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, start-up, healthcare, boutique law, government, retail, wellness, service industry or nonprofit world. (Booth 515)
LOWER CAPE FEAR WATER & SEWER
wilmingtonbiz.com - Greater Wilmington Business Journal is the Wilmington region’s No. 1 resource for business news and information. (Booth 300, 301)
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Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 15wilmingtonbiz.comwilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 17 – 30, 2022 Page 15 JOIN US OCTOBER 3-7, 2022 Register online at www.wilmingtonchamber.org FREEANDIN-PERSONVIRTUAL SEMINARS WORKSHOPS& Cape Fear Region Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week presented by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce recognizes and celebrates the achievements and impacts of minority entrepreneurs across southeastern SPONSORS’ CONTENT DISTRIBUTED BY GREATER WILMINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL PRESENTED BY:
The Coalition's Business Roundtables CFCC UNION STATION
The Ultimate Workshop to Dominating Your Market with Social Media Ads TOYA MARKETINGNEXGENERATIONWILSON-SMITH,DIGITALAGENCY,INC
7:30 A.M. - 9:45 A.M.
3:30 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.
DANI BLACK, BIGGER How to write a successful business plan
Doing Business with #TeamCOW
5:30 P.M.7:30 P.M.
2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.
VIRTUAL
Combating
JOSE ALVAREZ, PROSPERA CAMILA MOLINA, THREAD CAPITAL WILMINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CARLA COPES, OFFICE FOR HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES
Managing the Multigenerational Workplace
12:00 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.
2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.
WILMINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PURE VIBEZ EVENTS
TOYA
Access to Capital (SPANISH) JOSE ALVAREZ, PROSPERA VIRTUAL
JOE CONWAY, CITY OF WILMINGTON VIRTUAL Tuesday 4
From Start-Up to BusinessStarttionalUnconvenCome-Up:WaystoaandFind
Monday Wednesday 8:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. Setting the Table for Success: A day of reality-based preparation for your food business
STUDENTS AND FACULTY FROM UNCW AND NCA&T HYBRID, UNCW CREST RESEARCH PARK
10:30 A.M.11:30 A.M.
3:30 P.M.4:30 P.M.
VIRTUAL
VIRTUAL 0:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.
Introduction to Wellness and Stress Management – Tips for the Entrepreneur TIFFANY CRIPPS, HEALTH BEGINS FROM WITHIN, LLC VIRTUAL
The Wave of NorthEntrepreneurshipLatinoinCarolinaandthe New
Putting the E in STEM; (Empowering, Equitable, for Everyone)
CHRIS MONTERO, PERFECT TOUCH RENTALS AND POWEREDCLINTON-QUINTANA,CHAKEMACHANNELBYLIVEOAKBANK
VIRTUAL
1
5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
1
SPONSORS’ CONTENT DISTRIBUTED BY GREATER WILMINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL
Hanover Region
MARKETINGNEXGENERATIONWILSON-SMITH,DIGITALAGENCY,INC
Page 16 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journalwilmingtonbiz.comwilmingtonbiz.comPage 16 September 17 – 30, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
BRANDING (Construcción de una Marca profesional y exitosa) SPANISH
9:00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M.
Financial Health, Wellness, Resiliency - Creating an Adequate Retirement Plan
CHRIS PRENTICE, UNCW, HEATHER MCWHORTER, UNCW CIE, JESS BOERSMA, UNCW, KARL RICANEK, LAPETUS SOLUTIONS
Social GrowingEntrepreneurship:yourbusinessand your society
CEO AND DIRECTOR OF UNCW I3S INSTITUTE VIRTUAL
JAMIE STALFORT, SBTDC
3 :00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.
VIRTUAL
VIRTUAL 1
4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Historically Underutilized Business Certifications
10:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. The DividendInclusion
JOE A.B.I.D.ECONWAY, VIRTUAL
TRAVIS CORPENING, NEW HANOVER COUNTY VIRTUAL
12:00 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.
JENNIFER GALEANO, EUREKA MARKETING AGENCY
Access to Capital for your Small Business LESLIE CAROLINALEWIS,SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FUND VIRTUAL
Content Marketing and Copywriting for 2022 & Beyond
CHANNEL
STEFANIE ADAMS, WNY PEOPLE COWORKING 1:00 A.M. - 11:45 A.M.
1 :30 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.
3 :00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.
ROSALIE CALARCO, AARP VIRTUAL
Design and construction at UNC Wilmington STAFF FROM UNC WILMINGTON FACILITIES DIVISION 2:00 P.M. - 1:15 P.M. Shades of Microaggression
event schedule OCTOBER 20223-7, 3 5
Success
Intentional Collisions
DEVELOPMENT ELEVATE
TABLES CULINARY AND SERVICE CONSULTING CFCC MCKEITHAN CENTER (BUILDING NA) ROOM 112 9 :00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M. The Business of Business Plans:
3:30 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.
who
12:00 P.M.1:00 P.M.
Spotlight on Supplier Diversity: Novant Health
11:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. 2022 ConferenceWilmingtonBiz&Expo
Your Business Story: A Guide to Using Analytics & Big Data in Small Business TOYA MARKETINGNEXGENERATIONWILSON-SMITH,DIGITALAGENCY,INC
JON BARKER, PTW SOLUTIONS, INC. VIRTUAL
VIRTUAL
2:15 P.M. - 3:15 P.M.
9:30 A.M.10:30 A.M.
Accessibility for All: Block chain, Crypto, and Smart Cities
President & CEO the
CANDACE ALLEY, TRAUMA RESOURCE NETWORK INC.
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 17wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 17 – 30, 2022 Page 17wilmingtonbiz.com
10:00 A.M. - 11:45 A.M.
How to navigate Federal Government OpportunitiesContract
VIRTUAL
Finding the Gold in Your Email List
our
Impuestos sobre las ventas y uso
ChamberWilmingtonofCommerce 6 7 Register online at www.wilmingtonchamber.org SPONSORS’ CONTENT DISTRIBUTED BY GREATER WILMINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL
6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
“All
LOGAN LENZ, AWESOME WEBSITE GUYS
VIRTUAL
VIRTUAL North Carolinians from the success of minority entrepreneurs, create jobs, attract investment and generate revenue in
Novant Health recognizes that every person is different and shaped by unique life experiences, enabling us to better understand our team members and the communities we serve. At Novant Health, diversity, inclusion and equity is not a program – rather it’s an ongoing commitment to our patients, team members and community. Novant Health is proud to partner with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and sponsor MED Week, to help celebrate accomplishments and provide additional opportunities to strengthen our community.
can benefit
Cape Fear Region MED Week illustrates the commitment of UNCW and its community partners to equal opportunity and economic inclusion for minority- and women-owned businesses. In 2015, UNCW hosted the first Cape Fear Region MED Week to recognize the impact of minority businesses and to help level the playing field by providing guidance, networking and business development opportunities. The university remains committed to using programs and resources to enhance relationships and to broaden collaborative efforts to grow minority businesses in the southeast North Carolina
JAVIER CARLOS, NC DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
– Natalie English, President & CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce
NATALIEthroughoutcommunitiesourstate.”ENGLISH ,
ERICA LUCAS, NOVANT HEALTH, SAM VOREH, NOVANT HEALTH VIRTUAL
NC Sales and Use Tax / Impuesto sobre Ventas y Uso, English and SPANISH JAVIER CARLOS, NC DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE VIRTUAL
region.The
Genesis Block Diversity in Clean Energy Trade Show (DICE): ConversationsConvertingtoContracts
Mental Health & Addictions in the Workplace
of
1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M.
Thursday Friday
8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M.
TRACEY AND GIRARD NEWKIRK, GENESIS BLOCK WILSON CENTER AT CAPE FEAR COLLEGECOMMUNITY
Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to be hosting Cape Fear Minority Enterprise Development (MED) week this year. This year, Cape Fear MED Week includes more than 30 programs over the course of five days to help you grow your business and meet other business owners in our community. I am grateful to our community partners and event sponsors who understand that all North Carolinians can benefit from the success of our minority entrepreneurs, who create jobs, attract investment, and generate revenue in communities throughout our state.
9:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.
MELANIE DIEHL, MELANIE AND CO MARKETING COLLECTIVE VIRTUAL
WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER
LEADER SPONSOR
SPONSORS’ CONTENT DISTRIBUTED BY GREATER WILMINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL
PRESENTING SPONSOR
EXECUTIVE SPONSORS: PURE VIBEZ EVENTS, THOMAS CONSTRUCTION GROUP, LLC
a special thank you to our sponsors
WORDMARKS
Page 18 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journalwilmingtonbiz.comwilmingtonbiz.comPage 18 September 17 – 30, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
ADVOCATE SPONSOR
INVESTOR SPONSORS: ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AT UNCW, AT&T NORTH CAROLINA, CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE SMALL BUSINESS CENTER, CLANCY & THEYS CONSTRUCTION CO., R.J. LEEPER CONSTRUCTION, LLC, SMALL BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CENTER (SBTDC) AT UNCW, SWAIN CENTER FOR EXECUTIVE EDUCATION AT UNCW Register online at www.wilmingtonchamber.org
VISIONARY SPONSOR
faster than a traditional university or school. (Booth 111)
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES nothingbundtcakes.com - Step into our bakery and let the aroma of freshly-baked Bundt stir your senses. Choose from 10 luscious Bundt flavors and 40 unique cake designs while you browse a treasure trove of unique gifts, charming cards and inspired decorator items. (Booth 316)
MED WEEK
ncwc.edu - North Carolina Wesleyan University is a fouryear co-educational college. With a foundation in the liberal arts, the college prepares students for successful careers, professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. The college is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. (Booth 101)
- For nearly 40 years, O’Brien Service Company has served as your No. 1 locally owned and operated HVAC contractor in Wilmington. Whether you need furnace replacement, heat pump routine maintenance, or air handler repairs, we have the services and expertise you need for your residential or commercial project. (Booth 206)
Coalition Corridor (Booth 217)
momentumprojects.com - At MoMentum we strive to find the right buyer, the right investor and the right solution for your businesses future. We are bold enough to make the unexpected phone call to lure the perfect person or business to fill the need. (Booth 302)
Coalition Corridor (Booth 216)
EXHIBITORS
O’BRIEN SERVICE, CO, INC. obrienservicecompanywilmington.com
CAPITAL
PIONEER STRATEGIES, INC. pioneerstrategies.com - Pioneer Strategies is a public relations and strategic communication firm that partners with clients to plan and implement strategic communication campaigns to achieve their goals. (Booth 602)
enterprise-development-med-weewilmingtonchamber.org/minority- k - Cape Fear Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week presented by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce recognizes and celebrates the achievements and impacts of minority entrepreneurs across Southeastern North Carolina, and provides opportunities for networking, expanding and strengthening businesses. (Booth 413, 414, 505, 506)
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 19wilmingtonbiz.com W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
service used car dealership located in Wilmington that caters to the sales, purchase and maintenance needs of all drivers, including those who are looking for luxury models and firsttime vehicle buyers. (Booth 112, 113, 114, 115)
MOMENTUM COMPANIES
NERDSTOGO nerdstogo.com - NerdsToGo® has been providing computer repairs
MILLER-MOTTE COLLEGE miller-motte.edu - Jump-start your future with a Miller-Motte College education. Our wide range of technical and education training programs help you get the degree, certificate or diploma you need
and technology-based services to both small businesses and homes since our founding in 2003. Today, our locations throughout the United States have helped countless customers with a wide range of technology needs. (Booth 617)
NCMBC
NORTH WESLEYANCAROLINAUNIVERSITY
COMMUNITYPARTNER
ncmbc.us - The North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) is a statewide business development and technology transition entity of the State of North Carolina, headquartered at and supported by Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC). The mission of the NCMBC is to leverage military and other federal business opportunities to expand the economy, grow jobs and improve quality of life in North Carolina.
partnercap.org - Partner Community Capital™ is a small business loan fund that supports entrepreneurs who are creating jobs and businesses in underserved communities in central Appalachia and the Southeast.
PRESENTING SPONSOR ELECTION 2022ELECTION 2022 WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 22, 7:30 AM to 9:45 AM WHERE: Wilmington Convention Center Visit WilmingtonPowerBreakfast.com for more details To learn about becoming a Power Breakfast sponsor, contact us at 910-343-8600 x212. PRESENTING SPONSOR
Page 20 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journalwilmingtonbiz.com
Contact@LeathHRGroup.com 910.795.4712
HealthcareforHRCutting-edgeCulture.StrategiesGrowingTeams
Attract. Train. Retain.
LeathHRGroup.com
UNCW CIE uncw.edu/cie - The UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship works to identify and nurture highgrowth, high-impact companies and to accelerate the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Southeastern North Carolina.
sametcorp.com - As a premier builder, Samet Corporation provides the experience, resources and structured processes of a large firm combined with the responsiveness, management accessibility and personalized service of a small business. (Booth 305)
RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN
Coalition Corridor (Booth 218)
WILMINGTON AREA REBUILDING MINISTRY (WARM)
wilmingtonforrent.com - Sweyer Property Management is your top local resource for professional property management services in Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Full-service property management is our specialty and our services are catered to investment property owners, making the rental investment experience smooth and worry-free. (Booth 317)
seasidehoneybees.com - Seaside Honeybees installs and manages honeybee hives for homes, businesses, and schools! We
understand how daunting it can be to get started beekeeping on your own, and want to make it simple and accessible for everyone. (Booth 417)
SELF-HELP CREDIT UNION self-help.org - Self-Help is a leading nonprofit financial institution headquartered in Durham. As a national community development organization, we have more than 188,000 members and we’ve delivered $11 billion in financing to help over 198,000 people buy homes, start and build businesses, and strengthen community resources, across the United States. (Booth 313)
SPIFFY
SWEYER MANAGEMENTPROPERTY
TD BANK td.com - Discover what it means to be Unexpectedly Human™ with TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank. (Booth 502)
SBTDC sbtdc.org - The Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) has helped North Carolina businesses grow and create new jobs since 1984. We provide management counseling and educational services to small- and mid-sized businesses. Most of our services are free of charge, and all are confidential.
uncw.edu/cpe - UNCW Continuing and Professional Education provides highquality learning opportunities with a focus on non-credit professional development for individuals, government entities, and other employers. CPE advances the mission of the university through excellence in teaching and dedication to community engagement. (Booth 306)
UNITED COMMUNITY BANK ucbi.com - At United Community Bank, we believe in combining top-ofthe-line financial solutions with awardwinning satisfaction for our customers. Our industry-leading experts and full suite of digital banking services are here to give you the tools you need to meet your financial goals. (Booth 209)
WIDE OPEN TECH
SALTY BINS
UNCW CAMERON SEMINAR SCHOOL OF BUSINESS csb.uncw.edu - Business education at the Cameron School of Business is focused on the technical, analytical and interpersonal skills students will need to lead this fundamental change in the business world through the 21st century. (Booth 516, 517)
VESTAL FINANCIAL GROUP OF TRUIST INVESTMENT SERVICES
truist.com - The Vestal Financial Group of Truist Investment Services, Inc. has the experience and knowledge base to support the diverse clientele we serve. The extensive knowledge of our group and the established internal and external network of professionals
YWCA OF THE LOWER CAPE FEAR – LIVING THE DREAM – CENTER ENTREPRENEURSHIPFOR
rsvpadvertising.com - Reach the Right People in the Cape Fear/Wilmington Area with RSVP Direct Marketing! Let our lead generation experts put the power of our proven, homeownertargeted, direct marketing to work for you. (Booth 208)
SAMET CORPORATION
saltybins.com - Salty Bins offers a subscription Curbside Trash Bin Cleaning Service. When we arrive at your curb on your trash collection day, one of our SELF-CONTAINED custom built trucks will remove built up grime, food particles, insect eggs, etc. and Disinfect, Sanitize and Deodorize your trash and recycling bins. (Booth 603)
wideopentech.com – Wide Open Tech helps businesses just like yours achieve their wildest technology goals. We work with many different kinds of businesses at varying sizes and stages both locally and nationally. Your business is your passion, and we’re dedicated to helping you become the hero of your story. (Booth 408, 409)
Coalition Corridor (Booth 203)
getspiffy.com - Since 2014, Spiffy has used their passion for technology and customer experience to pursue their goal of truly convenient and ecoconscious car care for individuals and fleets nationwide. They have always been mobile, app-based and car wash & detail focused. Now they are 100% zero contact and offer complete car care, including disinfection, oil change, tire repair and replacement and other maintenance services. (Booth 716, 717, 718)
allows us to implement a number of different strategies to help address our clients goals. (Booth 509)
REGION SBC capefear.score.org - SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow and succeed nationwide.
TEAMLOGIC IT SEMINAR teamlogicit.com - TeamLogic IT is
a national provider of technology services and solutions for businesses of all kinds. Unlike many managed service providers (MSPs), we focus on business and technology. We understand that not all organizations are alike and work hard at delivering solutions tailored to your unique business goals and challenges. (Booth 311, 312)
Coalition Corridor (Booth 215)
UNCW EDUCATIONCONTINUING
wnypeopledevelopment.com - Growing the next generation of leaders. Provide tools, strategies and coaching that spark trust, confidence and balance within oneself to lead effectively. (Booth 604)
myyachtsource.com - Yacht Source provides year-round charters with options to cruise the waterways, plan day trips to specific locations, and host private events such as bachelor parties, engagements, birthdays, corporate events and any other special occasion where you want to have fun on the water in first-class style. (Booth 510, 609)
SEGRA segra.com – As one of the largest independent fiber networks in the Eastern US, Segra is known for our future-forward infrastructure and state-of-the-art voice and data technology solutions for businesses of all sizes and wholesale transport services to some of the world’s largest carriers. (Booth 513)
renewalbyandersen.com - Renewal by Andersen serves Wilmington and the surrounding Coastal North Carolina area with lasting window replacement for your home. Backed by over 100 years in the industry, we’re the region’s most trusted name in window installation. (Booth 704)
SEASIDE HONEYBEES
warmnc.org - The mission of WARM is to make people safer in their own homes by mobilizing volunteers to complete urgent repairs, hurricane recovery and accessibility upgrades. WARM serves low-income homeowners in Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties, many of whom are elderly and/or disabled. (Booth 309)
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 21wilmingtonbiz.com W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO
RSVP CAPE FEAR
WNY PEOPLE SEMINAR DEVELOPMENT LLC
SCORE CAPE FEAR
Coalition Corridor (Booth 200)
YACHT SOURCE
EXHIBITORS
ywca-lowercapefear.org - The YWCA is proud to be the oldest and largest women’s movement, providing services for women and their families in our community. The YWCA Lower Cape Fear is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace.
Page 22 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journalwilmingtonbiz.com Main Stage Aisl200e Aisl300 Aisl400e Aisl500e 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 118 119 120 121 20 21 22 23 205 206 207 208 209 216 217 218 219 300 301 302 303 310 311 312 313 314 317 400 401 402 403 404 405 406 407 408 409 410 411 500 501 502 503 504 505 512 513 514 515 600 601 602 603 0 0 0 0 CONCESSIONS ENTRANCE 118 119 120 121 20 21 22 23 216 217 218 219 300 301 302 303 314 315 316 317 400 401 402 403 412 413 414 415 500 501 502 503 512 513 514 515 600 601 602 603 0 0 0 0 119 120 121 200 201 310202 311 312 313 404 405 406 407 119 120 121 200 201 408202 409 410 411 504 505 506 507 210 211 212 213 214 305 306 307 308 309 Aisl100e Aisl200e Aisl300e Aisl500e 510 511 608 609 512 513 514 605 606 607 515 516 517 518 519 600 602 603 604 410 411 412 413 414 505 506 507 508 310509 311 312 313 314 405 406 407 408 409 415 416 417 418 419 500 501 502 503 315504 316 317 318 319 400 401 402 403 404 Aisl400e MADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington GREMADE:AT EXIT EXIT RAMP EXIT EXIT EXIT 117 118 119 120 121 200 201 202 203 204 215 216 217 218 219 300 301 302 303 304 Corridor Coalition W ILMINGT ON B IZ CONFERENCE & EXPO E XPO EXHIBITOR
AlphaGraphics 415, 416
SEMINAR
Partner Community Capital 217
Cape Fear Community College 100
Fear Solar Systems 318, 319, 400,
SBTDC 218
TeamLogic IT 311, 312 UNCW Cameron School of Business 516, 517 UNCW CIE 200
Greater Wilmington Business Journal 300, 301 Hawthorne Executive Search 210
All Star Flags 614
O’Brien Service, Co, Inc. 206
Earney Consulting 117
SCORE Cape Fear Region 215 Seaside Honeybees 417 Segra 513
Matthews Motors 112, 113, 114, 115 MED Week 413, 414, 505, 506
CloudWyze 418, 419, 500, 501
Cape Fear Museum 412
Excite Credit Union 518, 519, 600, 601
United Community Bank 209 Vestal Financial Group of Truist Investment Services 509
Brawley 615
Allen + Shariff 205
FOCUS Broadband 304
North Carolina Wesleyan University 101
Edward Jones-Matthew Stowe 303 Elderhaus PACE 407
KBT Realty Services Keller Williams 503
Brunswick Community College SBC 204
Century 21-Jeff Lesley 214
Miller-Motte College 111
Corning Credit Union 402, 403
DesignLoud 410, 411
Lala & Elm 310
Capt’n Bill’s 619
YWCA of the Lower Cape Fear – Living the Dream – Center for Entrepreneurship 203
BOOTH
NCMBC 216
PARTICIPANT BOOTH PARTICIPANT
RSVP Cape Fear 208
Greater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 23wilmingtonbiz.com Aisl600e 600 601 602 603 616 617 618 619 700 701 702 703 710 711 712 713 714 715 716 717 718 719 720 721 600 601 602 603 616 617 618 619 700 701 702 703 Aisl700eAisl600e 608 609 605 606 607 610 611 612 613 614 705 706 707 708 709 600 601 602 603 604 615 616 617 618 619 700 701 702 703 704 MADE: GREAT GOODS FROM ATER WILMINGTON WINNERS EXIT EXIT EXIT EXHIBITOR MAP
Blockade Runner Resort 511
AXIS Fitness 610, 611
JohnnyLukes KitchenBar 715
9Round Fitness 116
NerdsToGo 617
Cape Fear Pro Wash 104, 105
Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer 307
Renewal by Andersen 704
Salty Bins 603
Samet Corporation 305
UNCW Continuing Education 306
Wide Open Tech 408, 409 Wilmington Area Rebuilding Ministry (WARM) 309
COALITION CORRIDORSPONSOR
Catapult 607, 608
Genesis Block 202
WNY People Development 604 Yacht Source 510, 609
EXPO SPONSOR
Earney & Company 121
MoMentum Companies 302
Leath HR Group 515
Sweyer Property Management 317 TD Bank 502
Health Begins from Within 314 Honey Head Films 405
Computer Warriors 504
Connect Cape Fear 618
Self-Help Credit Union 313 Spiffy 716, 717, 718
Pioneer Strategies, Inc. 602
Nothing Bundt Cakes 316
Business Growers 315, 404
Cape Fear Community College SBC 201
Cape 401
• Does the business have unique offerings in its market?
Director, UNCW CIE
Sandy sjohnson@wilmingtonbiz.comJohnson
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
The winners will each have a table at this year’s Wilm ingtonBiz Conference & Expo, also produced by the Business Journal, on Oct. 6 at the Wilmington Convention Center.Outside of the annual awards, the Business Journal wants to continue to spotlight the MADE focus year-round. Each month in one of our print editions, we’ll feature a locally based company mak ing goods and products in the Cape Fear region.
2022
EDITOR
Great Goods from Greater Wilmington
For advertising information and rates, call (910) 343-8600 x204
To be considered for the feature, contact wilmingtonbiz.com.newsroom@
Wilmington, NC 28405
ERIN EASTON
ROB BURRUS
Julia jjones@wilmingtonbiz.comJones
VP of Administration & External Affairs, NC Ports
SENIOR MARKETING CONSULTANTS
likely to grow sales the most, particularly in other parts of the country and/or interna tionally?•Isthe continued growth of the company likely to result in the creation of more jobs in the region and a posi tive impact on local economic development?•andforthe Supporter category: Which organiza tion is best equipped to help businesses that make products expand quickly, resulting in more jobs locally and other positive impacts on local eco nomic development?
EVENTS DIRECTOR
Cece Nunn, assistant editor, Greater Wilmington Business cnunn@wilmingtonbiz.comJournal
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
A panel of outside judges combed through the nomina tions and were asked to base their choices for winners on several factors, including:
For the Supporter category, judges considered what nominated organization was best equipped to help businesses that make products expand quickly.
Dean, UNCW Cameron School of Business
PRESIDENT
APRIL SCOTT
Executive Director, The Arts Council of Wilmington/ New Hanover County
JUDGING APPLICANTSTHE
Alexis rmiles@wilmingtonbiz.comalphin@wilmingtonbiz.comAlphinRachelMiles
RHONDA BELLAMY
• Which companies are
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES
For more information about the MADE winners and their companies, go to WilmingtonBiz.com.
Rob rkaiser@wilmingtonbiz.comKaiser
Vicky vjanowski@wilmingtonbiz.comJanowski
ASSISTANT EDITOR
2022 MADE JUDGES
WINNERS
Cece cnunn@wilmingtonbiz.comNunn
MARKETING CONSULTANT
Braden bsmith@wilmingtonbiz.comSmith
Business Journal launched the MADE Awards for that very reason, to recognize makers, manufacturers, artisans, design ers, small businesses and the businesses that support them in New Hanover, Brunswick and PenderThosecounties.chosen by the judges each year cover a wide range of products being conceived and produced in the local market.
Director of Retail Experience, Excite Credit Union
LITTLEKEN
Jenny Callison, Neil Cotiaux, Laura Moore, Lynda Van Kuren
219 Station Road, Suite 202
Nunn MADE
Elizabeth events@wilmingtonbiz.comStelzenmuller
Jamie jkleinman@wilmingtonbiz.comKleinman
To subscribe to the Greater Wilmington Business Journal, call (910) 343-8600 x201 or visit wilmingtonbiz.com. Subscriptions cost $9.95 per month or $95 per year.
Each year, the MADE Awards program brings attention to manufac turers and makers in the Cape Fear region, revealing that the area is home to Wilmingtonmightnessandthaningtonmade-in-Wilmmoreproductsresidentsevenbusileadersrealize.TheGreater
OFFICE & DEVELOPMENTAUDIENCEMANAGER
DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
MEDIA COORDINATOR
Tara tweymouth@wilmingtonbiz.comWeymouth
Carolyn ccarver@wilmingtonbiz.comCarver
JERRY COLEMAN
LAURA BLAIR
Maggi mcoleman@wilmingtonbiz.commapel@wilmingtonbiz.comApelMatthewColemanCraigSnowcsnow@wilmingtonbiz.com
This year, nominations came in from businesses vying in six categories: Manufacturer, Functional Products (examples include tools, gadgets, beauty products, furniture and indus trial/medical devices), Arts (such as apparel, accessories, textiles, home goods and statio nery), Food & Beverage (such as wine and spirits, dry/baked/ canned goods and sustainable foods), Exporter (such as com panies that export outside the U.S.) and Supporter (examples include patent law firms, man ufacturing associations, SBA lenders and retail markets that carry primarily local products).
Suzi art@wilmingtonbiz.comDrake
© Copyright 2022 SAJ Media LLC
DESIGNER
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Cape Fear Manufacturing Partnership and Workforce Training Coordinator at CFCC’s Workforce and Economic Development Division
Robert rpreville@wilmingtonbiz.comPreville
REPORTERS
After the nomination period, a panel of out side judges reviewed the submissions and picked theInwinners.picking the winners, judges were asked to weigh whether the nominated businesses had unique offerings in their market; which were likely to grow sales the most, particularly in other parts of the country and/or internationally; and if continued growth would likely result in the cre ation of more jobs in the region and impact local economic development.
In the end, the judges chose three top winners for the Manufacturing, Function al Products, Food & Beverage and Arts categories and one for the Exporter and Sup porter designations. Those winners are profiled on the following pages.
ADVERTISING
The MADE Awards’ goal is to recognize prod ucts made in Southeastern North Carolina.
Director of Cape Fear Community College’s Small Business Center
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 24 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
HEATHER MCWHORTER
(910) 343-8600 Fax: (910) 343-8660 wilmingtonbiz.com
PUBLISHER
FOUNDER Joy Allen
Spotlighting this year’s MADE Awards
EVENTS/DIGITAL COORDINATOR
Director of Brunswick Community Center’s Small Business Center
Any company with an operation in New Hanover, Brunswick or Pender counties that met award criteria eligible. Their product could be in production or in the prototype stage.
SARAH STONE
Johanna jcano@wilmingtonbiz.comCanoJohannaF.Stilljstill@wilmingtonbiz.com
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 25 BETTER CHECKINGBUSINESS No fuss, just frills with three checkingbusinessoptions BETTER BUSINESSSERVICES Everyday business solutions for businesseverydayneeds BETTER BUSINESSLENDING Loans tailor-made for the sole proprietor, the LLC, the partnership, or the non-profit Scan the QR code to get your business started! Eligibility and terms apply. Insured by NCUA. For more information, visit excitecu.org/business
“To replace single use plastic items wherever we can”
What are your future goals for this product? “Increase our annual revenue by hiring more sales and production people, increasing our local motorized pulley production rate, bringing the application and finishing of nitrile rubber lagging in-house, and bringing the welding and machining of complex stainless steel pulley shells
What are your future goals for your products?
capefear customs.
How has your product helped impact the region’s economic development? “In the past six months we have brought on five additional workers to continue working at the pace we currently are. We hope to continue that into 2023.”
com Year founded: 2019 Number employees:of 21
How has your company grown since inception? “Averaging 10% growth year on year”
Top official: Matthew Gillilan, owner and operator Company description: Cape Fear Customs is Wilmington’s truck and off-road adventure store, specializing in overlanding, 4x4s and custom fabrication.
What current challenges are you facing? “Cost of materials on the rise, in addition to
Top official: Michael Gawinski, president
How has your product helped impact the region’s economic development? “Company growth has created local job opportunities for a variety of skills.”
Number of employees: 14
Top officials: Malcolm Ford, COO, and Willem Derkman, CEO Company description: PaperFoam makes sustainable packaging products using industrial potato starch, cellulose fibers, water and a proprietary ingredient.
Number employees:of 350 globally, 55 in the U.S.
paperfoam.
Company description: Rulmeca manufacturers motorized pulleys (internally-powered, hermeticallysealed, oil-filled conveyor belt drives) from 3 inches in diameter at 0.03 HP up to 40 inches in diameter at 330 HP.
How has your company grown since its inception? “Starting in October 2003 with two employees in a small office and a shipping container serving as a shop, we’ve grown to 14 employees in a 30,000-square-foot building. Our facility has CNC lathes, overhead cranes, assembly/test stands, an autoclave and a local assembly parts inventory of more than 4,000 different components.”
How has your product helped impact the region’s economic development? “In addition to the employees we have hired locally, thanks, in part, to our close cooperation with UNCW and Cape Fear Community College, we purchase materials, such as steel, oil, electronic components and lumber locally, as much as possible.”
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 26 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal MADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington
Year founded: 2003
CAPE CUSTOMSFEAR
rulmecacorp.com
What are your future goals for the product? “We would like to double our trailer production, bring on a metal fabrication appreciation and begin shipping our trailers inside the U.S.”
MANUFACTURER
PACKAGINGPAPERFOAM
RULMECA CORP.
www.capefear.REALTOR FOR ARESOURCERELIABLE IN REAL ESTATE, LOOK FOR THE R.
com Year founded: 1998
Top official: Bill Moore, managing partner
No. of employees: 3
Year founded: 2019 Number of employees: 12
What challenges are you facing? Labor. Young guys just don’t want to work at a surfboard factory anymore. Because of social media, they want to do it in their backyard and be a one-man show. At Savage Surfboards, it’s all about the team; it's not about just one person here.”
thewallprinter.com
How has your company grown since its inception? “The Wall Printer has grown to 12 employees to add business who deliver services throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean. In our first two years, we have established and helped grow more than 90 new businesses, who have added our innovative vertical (wall) and floor printing machines. Startups and established businesses use The Wall Printer machines to add revenue, employees and customers in their exclusive local territories.”
Number of employees: 3-4
Year founded: 1982
What are your future goals for the product? “Increase capacity with inventory, add office and customer support people, increase marketing spend to grow and secure our current market leading position. Getting on the radar of more established, multi-location businesses in the art, general contracting, print, painting, interior decorating sectors to add revenue and grow their business by adding Wall and Floor Printing machines and services.”
How has your company grown since its inception? “Our small business has grown in numerous ways, perhaps most notably in synthesis and (hopefully) nimble response to the evolving needs and trends of homeowners, architects, builders and DIY enthusiasts.”
How has your company grown? “The last 10 years, we’ve grown anywhere between 17 to 28% a year. We’re a Christian-based company so I have to give it all up to God.”
What current challenges are you facing? “Inflation and the rising costs of raw goods has certainly had an impact on our business. We are always working towards our unwavering commitment to quality materials and high level of craftsmanship with the goal of being as affordable as possible.”
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 27
How has your product helped impact the region's economic development? “From our early days and partnership with our sister company Cape Fear Riverwood, where we retrieved long-lost native, heart pine and old growth cypress from the Cape Fear River Basin to repurpose it into lumber, to employing apprentices from the local boatbuilding program, we have always endeavored to keep our roots local. Everything we make is built by hand and with a care and level of craftsmanship that is not typically possible in bigger corporate entities.”
HARDWOODSANCHOR SURFBOARDSSAVAGE THE PRINTERWALL ARTSMADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington Find out how we can help protect you from a devastating ransomware attack. DON’T BE THE NEXTCWITSUPPORT.COMHOSTAGE! 323 Eastwood Rd / Suite G / Wilmington, NC 28403 910-218-8136Contact us today at “We’ll take care of IT” Serving the IT Service & Support needs of the Greater Wilmington Area for Over 20 Years. (910)EarneyIT.com398-6250
Top official: Paul Baron, founder and CEO
Top officials: Kenny Briel and Shawn O'Donnell, owners Company description: “We believe in preserving the art and legacy of handcrafted surfboards in the USA. In an age where most industries are automated by foreign influence, the surfboard industry has been no exception. The Savage brand has successfully maintained since 1982 and continues to build the best handmade boards, using the highest quality materials on the market.”
Year founded: 2010
Company description: “Anchor Hardwoods is Wilmington’s friendly, local hardwood + home improvement headquarters.”
anchorhardwoods.net
Company description: “Wholesale distributor of wall and floor printing machines, establishing new and existing businesses to print digital images and art onto any wall, any size, any surface”
savage surfboards. com
c3customgolf.com
Number of employees: 5
PORT CITY SIGNS & GRAPHICS INC.
How has your company grown since its inception?
polyhose.com
How has your product helped impact the region's economic development? “Since a lot of organizations hold fundraising events on the golf course, it has created a great opportunity to assist where we can. We have donated customized product as tournament tee gifts to a number of local charities including ACCESS of Wilm ington, Surfers Healing, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, (the) local First Tee chapter and others.”
What are your future goals for the product? “Our goal is to continue to grow our staff of creative problem-solvers and continue to add cutting-edge equipment.”
Year founded: 1996
C3 CUSTOM GOLF
How has your product helped impact the region's economic development? “We provide sign and graphic solutions for our region’s largest employers, developers and film/TV productions, including construction signage, high-end interior graphics, electrical signs and com mercial fleet wraps. In the process, we are focused on providing careers for a talented team of professionals with creative engineering minds.”
Top officials: Y.J Shabbir, founder, who is based in India, and Mo hammed Murtaza, vice president of operations in North America Company description: “Polyhose is a global company that finds passion in design, development, manufac turing and distribution of fluid conveyance products.”
In the last three years, the North American market specifically has grown from $4.7 million in 2018 to $20 million this year and has grown from a team of 4 to 20.”
Year founded: 1948 Number of employees: 12
Year founded: 2018
“We started in a residential garage providing golf club refinishing services as a hobby. We now have a brickand-mortar location where we still provide refinishing services but also sell our golf accessories to golf clubs throughout the United States. Additionally, we have add ed a retail option to c3customgolf.com where customers can acquire golf accessories customized to their desired design. We also added many options for non-golfers to purchase personalized gifts to give to friends, family and as customer gifts.”
How has your product helped impact the region's economic development? “We have employed over 15 people within the last year-and-a-half and as the company continues to grow, we will continue to employ more people, local to the Wilmington area. We are also working towards collaborating with communi ty colleges to design courses specific to our industry and potentially pay tuition for prospective employees.”
portcitysigns.com
MADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington FUNCTIONAL PRODUCTS POLYHOSE INC. 5723 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28405 MatthewsMotorsWilmington.com “SEE US” AT THE BIZ EXPO We understand the mechanics of business as well as technology Our approach to managed IT services focuses on delivering the highest levels of availability and security anytime, anywhere. MANAGED IT SERVICES PROACTIVE IT ⬤ PREVENTATIVE IT ⬤ RESPONSIVE IT OUR APPROACH 910-500-1392 | WilmingtonNC@TeamLogicIT.com 108 N Kerr Ave STE E3, Wilmington, NC 28405
Number of employ ees: 20 in North America and 2,000 globally
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 28 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
How has your company grown since its inception? “The company has grown from a revenue of $100,000 in 1997 to $200 million in 27 years.
Top official: Sabrina Da vis, president and CEO Company description: Port City Signs & Graphics provides commercial signage and vehicle wraps to construction, real estate, edu cation, health care and commercial interior design. How has your company grown since its inception? “Port City Signs launched in 1948 as the area’s original sign company providing hand-painted advertisements on signs and vehicles and added cut-vinyl designs in the 1960s. Digital printing, CNC routing and high-end finish ing are our methods now to fabricate a variety of signage solutions for commercial clients.”
Top official: Cameron Lee, founder Company description: C3 Custom Golf provides custom golf accessories and golf club customization services to golf clubs and individual players.
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 29
Number of employees: 276
How has your product helped impact the region’s economic development? “Currently we employee 276 people who reside in the greater Wilmington area. We were an original tenant in Pender Commerce Park, helping to catalyze the development of the area.”
Year founded: 2019
Number employees:of 3
“Kind Cultures began by producing products for one restaurant in a shared commissary kitchen space, and now has its own production kitchen and serves several area retailers and restaurants. Our offerings have expanded in variety, and with our brand new production space (August 2022), we are going to be able to target a greater regional and nationwide audience.”
Oyster Co. is a shellfish farm located in Topsail that is “dedicated to raising craft, sustainable shellfish that embody the taste of North Carolina while maintaining a positive impact on the environment.”
How has your company grown since its inception? “We had very humble beginnings in 2017. We operated out of a rental house on a half-acre of subleased oyster bottom to farm. No motors, one kayak we used to transport the gear needed to work every day. Now we own over 20 acres of farm area, 7 acres of land on the ICWW, a large building for processing, mechanical graders, three boats, one nursery dock and four employees.”
ACME SMOKED FISH OF NORTH CAROLINA KIND CULTURES N.
MADE Great Goods from Greater Wilmington Catapult empowers employers in every corner of the Carolinas. We provide your organization the confidence you need to solve everyday challenges. We keep details in-check so you can focus on growing your business. Resources like background checking, policy templates, handbook audits and more put you ahead of the competition. (866) 440-0302 | letscatapult.org Learn more by contacting us today!
What are your future goals for the product? “Continue to grow, while embodying our company’s core values, making every relationship meaningful, delivering the highest quality outcome across everything we do, passing our passion, improving every day and striving to do right by our people, our communities and our environment”
kindcultures
acmesmokedfish.com
Top official: Felipe Espinosa, director of manufacturing Company description: “Fourth-generation, family-owned company recognized as the country’s leading smoked fish purveyor. We produce cold smoked salmon products sold throughout the country.” How has your company grown since inception? “We started 2015 working one shift with three slicing and packaging lines. The weekly output used to be 90,000 pounds of finished goods. Nowadays, we have grown production by 170%, the number of jobs increased 120%, and we work a first shift with six lines and a second one with two lines.”
vegan.com
What are your future goals for the product? “I would like to grow our manufacturing to a scale that can serve regional and national wholesale customers and have a manufacturing facility locally. This would provide jobs in Wilmington and a greater opportunity to serve and grow a product sector that I am passionate about and believe in: plant based products! Having our products carried by Whole Foods Market is a main goal of mine.”
Year founded: 2017
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Number employees:of 4
Year founded: 2015
How has your product helped impact the region's economic development? “We employ four full-time oyster farmers and work with a fish distributor to transport our shellfish to local restaurants where there is a chef dedicated to running an oyster program with kitchen employees meticulously opening shellfish. But most importantly, our farm has a positive impact on the environment.” OYSTERSEA. CO.
Top official: Conor MacNair, CEO and founding farmer Company description: N. SEA.
Top official: Ashley John, CEO and owner Company description: Artisanal food operation producing plant-based cheeses and dairy alternatives How has your company grown since its inception?
nseaoyster.co
EXPORTER
How have you helped impact the region’s economic development? “We are coordinating with local community colleges to create training programs for company staff and the general public. Our actions are serving to improve the technical skills of workers in the area, increasing their earning potential and creating careers, while also providing a pipeline of talent to local manufacturers, ensuring their
americanhammer.com
SUPPORTER
Number of companies involved: 42
What current challenges are you facing? “Attracting, training and retaining career-minded staff is our major issue, and the main reason for the formation of the CFMP. Aligned with that, we need to change the perception of manufacturing jobs in this country and make people aware of the career possibilities our member companies can offer.”
MADE
MADE
How has your group grown since its inception? “An initial group of about 20 companies that assembled to discuss common issues has expanded to 42 currently. Our scope has expanded to include initiatives geared toward raising awareness of the career possibilities in manufacturing, and providing training geared towards those careers, among many other activities.”
How has your company grown since its inception? “Originally a small niche manufacturing company in a small town in Illinois producing less than 30 different hammers for a local tool and die market to now the largest all-American-made hammer company in the world producing hammers for every conceivable industrial application worldwide. With two U.S. patents and three trademarks and over 600 different hammers found everywhere from the heights of space
Great Goods from Greater Wilmington
capefearmfg.com
Top official: Ted Leitter, president and CEO
CAPE FEAR MANUFACTURING PARTNERSHIP
(SpaceX) down to the deepest coal and copper mines on planet Earth. We are the quintessential hammer company and very proud of our success.”
Barrett Earney Partner
“Continued and increasing coordination with local schools and improved public outreach in order to share our messaging. Additionally, we are looking for new members to increase our influence and help grow the manufacturing community in the Cape Fear region.”
Information Technology
Year founded: 2020
Great Goods from Greater Wilmington Seminar at 1:45 p.m. Outsourcing IT? Crucial questions to ask your IT provider for ensuring cybersecurity and data privacy Talk with us at Booth 121 to schedule an independent assessment of your cybersecurity and privacy Join us TechnologyBizExpo!atRiskAdvisory Services EarneyNet.com | 910.256.9995
Company description: “An American industrial manufacturing company producing over 600 different handheld hammers for the domestic and international metal manufacturing industry. 100% American made right here in Wilmington, North Carolina.”
Year founded: 1952
Robert Duggan CPA, CISA, CISSP, Director, Technology Risk Advisory
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 30 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
AMERICAN HAMMER
long-term viability and growth.” What are your future goals?
What are your future goals for this product? “Building or purchasing a larger facility so that we can bring all of our manufacturing here under one roof and hiring many more Wilmington residents while we produce the man’s oldest tool; for the world and beyond.”
Top official: James Flock, chair Organization description: “CFMP is a diverse group of manufacturing companies that have organized in order to address common issues facing our organizations.”
Number of employees: 15
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 31
Robert Hawthorne, President
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Ironman legacy behind long after raceTheday.”race begins at Wrightsville Beach where athletes swim 1.2 miles across Banks Channel, then “cruise from the beach to the country side” for 56 miles through the rural landscape of Pender County before returning across the Cape Fear River, to complete a 13.1 mile run through historic downtown Wilmington.
Since 2016, the Ironman Founda tion has given more than $100,000 to the Wilmington area in the form of grants to local nonprofits, according to “TheWinter.Ironman Foundation Community Grant program sup ports organizations within select North American and international race communities,” according to the Ironman Foundation website. “Grant funding provides an opportunity to create positive, tangible change in our race communities and leave the
some locals focus on the traffic and detours that major races like the Ironman 70.3 North Carolina and the Wilmington Marathon cause, the economic impact they have on the re gion can make it worth the few extra minutes of drive time.
In addition, the race organizers rent municipal facilities, including the Wilmington Convention Center and Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation areas, Clifford said.
“It brings people together and al lows for people to set goals,” Clifford said.The
“The mission of Race for Change is to improve equity for our athletes, in our sport and in the communities where we train and race,” according to the Ironman website.
“We pay for all the services sep arately. Nothing is donated by the city,” Clifford said.
“We have been maneuvering around city construction and growth, so we look forward to the ability to
The YMCA Wrightsville Beach Sprint Triathlon, which will take place Sept. 24, is one of the lon gest-running triathlons on the East Coast.The
Typically, an average of 5,000 people visit the area during the race weekend, bringing the opportunity for businesses to benefit from the surge of people in the post-summer slowdown.
“It is estimated that each athlete brings two support crew and stays an average two to three nights, so between hotels, taxes, food and bev erage and attractions revenue, it adds up,” Winter said.
“It is a beautiful area. It is some where where an athletes can bring their families and during the time when athletes are doing their things, getting ready for the race, families can stay busy,” Winter said. “Wheth er they go to any of the area beach es, Wrightsville, Carolina, Kure or Topsail, the families have their pick. Or they can go to the Battleship or the Gardens; there’s a lot for the families.”Thefact that athletes feel com fortable bringing their families to the area is one of the reasons the race is so successful, Winter said. This year, the finish line will be at Riverfront Park, making it even more family friendly.“This is a place where families can hang out, eat lunch and wait for their athletes to finish,” Winter said.
While
Clifford emphasized the need for education for the public on why these races are important for the people who race in them and the impact upon the community they serve.
Athletic advantages: Races and athletic events like the Ironman triathlon boost the region’s economy.
Clifford said he looks forward to a time when the races he directs have more consistency once construction projects are complete in the area.
Winter shared that most of the businesses impacted by the race course show their support for the race and come out to cheer on the athletes.More than 1,300 volunteers serve to ensure a successful event, which always gets “high marks for its Southern hospitality,” according to Winter.Inaddition to the grants Ironman provides, they have started the ini tiative, Race for Change, to increase diversity within the organization.
This translates to “more ways of giving back to the community through scholarships,” Winter ex plained.Themain concern is the safety of the athletes, so Ironman officials work closely with law enforcement and the Department of Transporta tion to ensure a safe course for the athletes and to manage traffic.
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 32 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
Tom Clifford, of Without Limits, serves as the triathlon race director, in addition to directing many others such as the toncommunity.racestheandtonandHalfBattleshipMarathontheWilmingMarathon,understandsimpactthesehaveontheTheWilmingMarathon
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first event took place 43 years ago in September 1979 with 99 par ticipants, and it’s still going strong today with 1,000 athletes expected to compete in this year’s event.
HOSPITALITY
MOORELAURA
After a lull during the pandemic, Winter explained that there was a strong desire for athletes to return this“Everybodyyear. wanted the event back. Everybody started returning in full force,” Winter said.
Winter said, “We have been able to keep athletes safe while showcasing the community be developing the relationships we have.”
The sold-out event of 2,300 athletes competing in the 70.3-mile swim, bike and half marathon race will take place Oct. 15.
PHOTO COURTESY OF IRONMAN
Races broaden visitor base
“North Carolina is very popular on the circuit because it is a nice and fun course. It is nice to see because I have lived here 50-plus years, and I love showcasing it. I am excited to bring a lot of people to this great community,” Winter said.
has a $2 million economic impact alone, so Clifford estimates a nearly $10 million impact of all the races he directs.With many people traveling to the area for the events, the hospitality industry can benefit from the boost. Last year, the Wilmington Mara thon included athletes representing 48 states. Clifford aims to have the race host 5,000 runners in upcoming years.Public services such as traffic con trol, permits and police are all paid for the by race organizations.
have some consistency in our courses. It will be great to have the facilities and the consistency to show off the best of what we got,” he said.
Ironman triathlon is the ultimate goal for many athletes, and Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach host a half Ironman each October.
“It is a great place to come, and we can continue to do better,” Clifford said. “We can be a good mecca for events to be held here.”
The Ironman 70.3 alone has a potential impact of $4 million on the area each October, according to race director Sami Winter.
Wilmington will meet residents and employers where they are and enable all segments of the population to take advantage of the digitization of the local econo my,” the announcement stated.
Some program activities outlined by the city include a digital skills as sessment, one-on-one meetings with a digital coach, individualized skills training, certifications, resume build ing and, finally, the career launch.
Wheeler describes having “fanati cal curiosity” that prompts him to be on the internet frequently or on one of his 150+ apps to seek information. “I try to stay balanced between my trusted sources and staying current on technology.”
Favorite apps include the Bloomberg app for headlines on the market and economy. For lo cal news, he checks the Greater Wilm-ingtonBusinessJourna l, WHQR and WECT for local news.
CEO & Wealth Adviser, Pathfinder Wealth Consulting
“If we collectively remove barriers to short-term, high-impact train ing opportunities,” Dennison said. “Individuals and families will have increased opportunity and access to self-sustaining wages and career advancement.”
JUNKIE
council meeting.
he works with high-net-worth clients.
A new favorite TV shows include House of the Dragon and any thing Star Wars to “take me to a galaxy far, far away (from work). Other than that, no TV except golf or select sporting events, like N.C. State beating ECU opening day of football this month.”
With the project slated to launch early in 2023, one key element is Talent Pipeline Management, which “maps the local workforce to prepare for current and future needs that will inform the curriculum and allow classroom-to-career pathways so that individuals who participate in the program are preparing for actual job opportunities that exist,” city spokes man Jarod Patterson said in a city
CANOJOHANNA
(who recently announced plans to hire 200 employees), nCino, Vantaca, MegaCorp Logistics and Monteith Construction.Initsannouncement of the fund ing approval, the city of Wilmington cites data from the Cape Fear Talent Survey that shows that up to 17,500 new jobs are estimated to be added to the local economy between 2020 and 2023, many of which will require digital“DigitalBridgeskills.
“This will be an extension and deeper dive into the Cape Fear Tal ent report which surveyed employers in 2020,” Cape Fear Collective CEO Meaghan Dennison said. “Addition ally, we will embed a data scientist on our team to support program evaluation and impact measurement across the DigitalBridge initiative, from intake to job placement.”
| TECHNOLOGY |
Jason Wheeler
This workforce development pro gram will focus on specific high-op portunity, high-need census tracts in Wilmington and will have the priori ty of filling local job opportunities.
into a digital career. As part of its community investment plan to use American Rescue Plan funding, the city of Wilmington announced a $2.5 million investment to launch this program.Threeorganizations will collab orate for the project: Cape Fear Collective, StepUp Wilmington and Wireless Research Center of North Carolina based in Wake Forest.
Some favorite authors are Daniel Kahneman, Malcolm Gladwell and Richard Thaler
Recognizing that tech skills translate to high-paying jobs in a growing tech career field, the city, along with community part ners, will launch a new project to skill workers and pair them with local ingresidentsforin-demandconnectioning,provideWilmingtonDigitalBridgeemployers.willtrainaccessandtojobsWilmingtonwantanentry
At work, Wheel er uses Calend ly for schedul ing, OneDrive for documentscloud-basedand Trello for group projects.
STOCK PHOTO
INFO
This initiative aligns with StepUp’s mission of moving people up the economic ladder through employ ment and wage growth, he said.
Planet Money, Freakonomics, TED Talks and At the Table with Patrick Lencioni are his podcastsfavoriteblendingworkandlife.
The project aims to benefit both individuals looking to grow their careers or get better wages and local businesses that need digitally skilled workers, he said. Participating employers include Live Oak Bank
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 33
This follows trends in the state and nation showing an increase in demand for IT and tech-related jobs.
“Recognizing the opportunity and impact that technology employment provides, our five-year strategic plan included the goal to provide a tech nology employment accelerator as a community need,” Rickard said. “So, the DigitalBridge partnership was a great opportunity for us to effectively realize our strategic goal and meet the strong community need.”
While demand is high, the city outlined the digital divide – a gap between those who possess digital skills and readily available access to technology and those who do not –as a priority issue in the community.
This Talent Pipeline Management will be conducted by Cape Fear Collective, a social impact nonprof it, that will work with employers to determine local skill and talent needs for tech-related jobs.
He reads news and professional content online. This includes The Wall JournalStreet
This initiative also aligns well with Cape Fear Collective’s work, which includes the 2021 Inclusive Economy report that had several recommenda tions to improve the inclusivity and economic mobility potential in the community.“Thecity’s investment into tech talent development speaks to two of those recommendations – invest in sustainable career paths and remove barriers to education and work,” Dennison said.
As CEO of the 17-yearold Wheelerfirm,overseesstrategy,growthandteammanagementandasanadviser,
, USA Today, The New York Times, Financial Times, The Economist, NPR and BBC
DigitalBridge Wilmington will be housed at StepUp’s office at 621 N. Fourth St., said Will Rikard, execu tive director of StepUp, a nonprofit serving individuals facing unemploy ment and underemployment.
Bridging the digital divide
Tech training: A program funded by the city of Wilmington and supported by local organizations, Digital Bridge Wilmington is set to offer residents a potential entry into a digital career.
The organization will serve as the community program anchor for Dig italBridge. StepUp’s existing pre-em ployment training and Beyond Talent service will support the new project’s tech“Ourtraining.goalis to meet people where they are, build their soft skills, con nect them with the right training pro gram, and then connect them with employers seeking technology-skilled staff,” Rikard said.
Agent: Michael Rokoski
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4 ON 4TH LLC 7616 Clark Hill Rd Wilmington 28412
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BizLeads is a collection of information gathered from greater Wilmington courthouses, state government offices and informational websites. These list ings are intended to help the business community find new customers and stay on top of happenings with current customers, vendors and competitors. New Corporations lists firms that were recently incorporated in the state of North Carolina. All information is gathered from the North Carolina Secretary of State website. Addresses listed may not be the actual address of the business.
Agent: Crown Hotel & Travel Management LLC
DALEYDUTY LLC 1173 Hale Swamp Road Shallotte 28459
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JEFF BERLIN RACING LLC 5812 Rowsgate Ln Wilmington 28411 Agent: Jeffrey Kyle Berlin
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 35
JIO’S PAINTING LLC 3706 Carolina Beach Rd Wilmington 28412 Agent: Hilda Franco
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BY CECE NUNN
Correctly priced property, howev er, isn’t plentiful, Lesley said.
According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 5.89%, surpassing their recent high in mid-June. As a result, the month ly mortgage payment is about 60% higher compared to last year. While borrowing costs have increased faster than people’s wages, buyers current ly need to spend 10% more of their budget for their mortgage payment if they want to buy the median-priced home.”When it comes to homes priced at $1 million or more in the Cape Fear region, one Wilmington-based realty firm sees trends potentially swinging theAlthoughpendulum.more homes in the luxury category sold in August this year than in August 2021, the total volume was down by almost $1 million – $96,018,443 this year com pared to $97,011,399, according to a report compiled by Just For Buyers Realty from the N.C. Regional MLS. The report used the total of sales in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.“Thisis just the latest sign that the leverage is moving back to the buyer,” stated Scott Saxton, of Just For Buyers, in the report released in early September. “A few months ago, we started to notice an increase in
When it comes to describing the state of the real estate market in the Wilmington area, Realtor Jeff Lesley sees a cou ple of issues.
Lesley said he expects move inven tory to come on the market as some owners unload vacation rentals and more inventory can have an impact on prices. Realtors and sellers should take note of the number of homes for sale in a particular area before drop ping or raising a price, he said.
August became the 27th month in a row, according to the report, when luxury home sales in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties saw year-to-year increases. A total of 60 homes with a price tag of $1 million or more sold in the tri-county area last month, compared to only 54 in August 2021.
Some agents struggle with pricing choice.“We are seeing stuff come on the market and then a price reduction because I think agents aren’t sure re ally what the sweet spot is right now,” said Ea Ruth, president of Cape Fear Realtors, in an interview in August. “There are still buyers out there look ing, but what’s that sweet spot?”
Price points: Bidding wars continue for homes in the Wilmington area that are priced correctly, according to Realtors.
The report also showed that more luxury buyers are choosing Pender County.“Forthe first time, luxury sales in Pender County hit double digits with 10 homes selling at prices of $1 mil lion or more – its best month ever,” the report stated.
A National Association of Re
“In this bubble we had earlier this year [homes going under contract for unusually high prices from January to March], it was only cash buyers buying or people putting 20% down and paying an extra hundred grand. They’re already sitting on 30 or 40% of equity, so if the market does pull down 10%, they’re not going to fore close because obviously they still got 20-30% of equity left.
“We’re not going to see that major crash from a financial foreclosure point of view.”
REAL ESTATE
“When a property comes on that’s priced right, I’m getting bidding wars almost left and right again because the good inventory is selling very quickly,” he said. “The stuff where your neighbor got $100,000 over the appraised value back in March and now you think you can get the same thing – those have been sitting on the market three, four or five months.”
On the buyer side, mortgage rates will always be at the forefront.
Housing demand still high, pricing tricky
inventory of luxury homes – mean ing buyers had more options. Then in July, we noticed a decrease in the number of luxury homes going under contract, and now we are seeing an overall dip in prices. What all that tells me is that this is once again be coming a more balanced market.”
For single-family homes in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties, the median price rose from $337,000 in August 2021 to nearly $350,000 last month.
“From my point of view, I’ve had my most productive month of my career in August of this year as far as contracts and listing-taking goes,” he said, “and September will be my largest closing month I’ve ever had.”
altors blog post in early September stated, “Mortgage rates continue to escalate, moving closer to 6%.
the report stated. The property at 15 Augusta St. closed Aug. 1 for $5.9 million.Themost expensive purchase of an existing home in August was in Wilmington’s Shandy Point neighborhood. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom, custom home is on a peninsula at 136 Skystasail Drive and measures more than 4,100 square feet, according to the report. The property was listed by Vance Young of Wilmington-based Intra coastal Realty Corp. and closed for $3,875,000.Asforprices in the market in general, Lesley said he thinks the industry will see prices level off over the next few years, possibly even dropping by as much as 10%, but nothing like what happened as a result of the Great Recession more than a decade ago.
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wilmingtonbiz.comPage 36 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
“I think we’ve got the media, which is saying the world’s coming to an end, and I think we’ve got real estate agents that definitely think it’s going to end,” he said in a conversa tion at the end of August.
The most expensive transaction was for a concept home that has yet to be built on Wrightsville Beach,
But that’s not the case, Lesley said, as the world still contains consumers who need to buy and sell regardless of timing. But pricing is key.
Saxton said, “Three of those sales were in Hampstead neighborhoods, away from the water. That’s a sign that luxury buyers have fallen in love with this entire region and that is going to continue, not just in Pender County, but pretty soon you will see more and more luxury buyers look ing at Onslow County too.”
Lesley, one of the top-producing agents in the region and one of the partners in new Wilmington-based agency Century 21 Vanguard, shared his take on some recent experiences.
One of the most pressing priorities facing our region is how we meet the needs of our rapidly growing population. It was a driving factor behind the sale of New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2021, as neither NHRMC nor New Hanover County had the resources to grow services quickly.
INVESTING IN WILMINGTON’S HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
At Novant Health, we’re excited about the ways we’re investing in the long-term health and well-being of the entire Wilmington community. We are committed to ensuring the region has the next-level medical facilities and health care services it needs – now, and for generations to come.
The planned 66-bed Novant Health Scotts Hill Medical Center, a new community hospital with an orthopedic focus, is well underway, too.
At the time of the sale, Novant Health committed to investing $2.5 billion to fund our growth. While we, like the rest of the health care industry, have been challenged by a nationwide shortage of clinical staff, we are making progress on that commitment: providing new ways of accessing care, new locations for care, and significantly expanded services and advancements.
Michael Jordan’s recent $10 million donation to open two medical clinics in Wilmington through a partnership with Novant Health has sparked a lot of excitement. Patients at the clinics will receive comprehensive primary care, including behavioral health and social support services, ensuring that those who are uninsured and underinsured have access to true “whole-person” care.
Shelbourn Stevens also oversees Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center and Novant Health Pender Medical Center.
Stevens is accountable for the region along with having other systemwide responsibilities across Novant Health.
Novant Health broke ground earlier this year on a new medical office building being constructed on the campus of Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center. The new building will expand access to heart and vascular care, including cardiac rehabilitation; family medicine, orthopedics and sports medicine; surgical care and infusion services. Patients also will receive urology and OB-GYN services at the new location.
NEW, 24/7 VIRTUAL VISITS
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 37wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal August 19 - September 1, 2022 Page 25
SOShelbourn@novanthealth.orgNovantHealth.org
Nothing showed us the convenience of virtual health care more than the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many in the community needed a medical visit without leaving home. But the truth is, visiting your doctor over your phone or computer screen can be a huge help at many other times. That’s why we have expanded video visits to nights and weekends.Now,patients can conveniently access and video chat with an expert Novant Health provider 24/7 for diagnosis and treatment of common medical conditions. By logging into their MyChart account, patient can have a scheduled or on-demand visit.This 24/7 video care provides another option and alternative to an emergency room visit after hours for routine, nonemergent needs – all from the comfort of a patient’s home.
During his 30-year tenure with Novant Health, he has worked in a wide variety of departments and held numerous leadership roles, including president and chief operating officer of Brunswick Medical Center for many years. Stevens played an integral part in the transition from the original Brunswick Community Hospital to its new, state-of-the-art facility in 2011.
HOW NOVANT HEALTH IS BRINGING MORE CARE TO SOUTHEASTERN NORTH CAROLINA
EXPANDING ACCESS TO ADVANCED CARDIAC, NEUROLOGY AND ORTHOPEDIC CARE
SHELBOURN STEVENS Senior VP and President of Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Coastal Market
We’re also expanding our inpatient neurology services with a dedicated 108bed facility on our 17th Street campus. Opening this fall, it will house our comprehensive stroke center as well as advanced services for aneurysms and other neurological needs.
Public utility authority board taps Adams to lead
They include the NAHB Grand Award for the highest numerical increase of affiliate members and the highly coveted 2021 NAHB Membership Cup award, accord ing to a news release. The Grand Awards are given each year to the top association from each group size in several membership categories, including highest numerical increase, percentage growth, retention rate and increase in affiliate members, the release stated.
Recognizes exceptional design and the intentional and impactful design decisions that were part of a project in the Cape Fear Region.
As COO, Beltre has a range of duties, including leadership and dayto-day direction for the operations at all corporate, affiliated and site-man aged locations; and oversight and direction for the short- and longterm planning of the organization, amongBeltreothers.said, “With Innovo Re search’s access to such a diverse patient population across the United States and the quality of the da ta-driven provider network, Innovo Research is going to be a major play er in the clinical research realm. And I’m excited to be a part of it.
about company
Cape Fear Community College has announced recent appointments to the CFCC Board of Trustees. RAY FUNDERBURK III and LANNY WILSON were appointed for four-year terms – Funderburk by the New Hanover County Board of Education and Wilson by the New Hanover County Board of Hampden-SydneyinasinceHanoverhasreleasemissioners,Comanewsstated.FunderburklivedinNewCounty1970.Hehasbachelor’sdegreeEnglishfrom
Wilson was born in Pender Coun ty and raised in Wilmington. He earned a bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University and a law degree from Wake Forest University School of HeLaw.has served as vice chairman and chairman of the N.C. Real Es
Innovo Research recently appoint ed CERDI BELTRE chief operating offi cer at the company.
Homebuilders bring home national awards
Recognizes a company or individual who consistently exemplifies Cape Fear CREW’s commitment to elevating the status of women by supporting the advancement of the careers of women and who has shown leadership in encouraging and promoting women within a leadership team.
Recognizes a person or team who demonstrated excellence, resourcefulness, collaboration and industry best practices while working on a successful transaction.
Best Design Award
He taught high school English for 16 years at Pender High School.
SendFunderburkinformation
Dealmaker Award
Beltre appointed to COO role at Innovo Research
At its regular meeting Aug. 10, the CFPUA Board elected JENNIFER ADAMS as its chair woman, according to a news previouslyAdams,release.whoserved as board treasurer, has served on Cape Fear Public Utility Au thority’s board since she was appointed by New Hanover County in 2016. Adams is environmental leader for the Optical Fiber and Cable Division of Corning Inc. She is also a licensed professional engineer in North Carolina and has worked in the en vironmental field for more than two decades.Alsoon Aug. 10, the board elected Wesley Corder as its vice chairman, Jessica Cannon as secretary and William Norris as treasurer.
tate Commission, commissioner and vice chairman of the N.C. Turnpike Authority and on the N.C. Board of Transportation. In 2012, the NC DOT renamed a bridge in honor of Wilson.
Recognizes a team who worked together on a development, major renovation or redevelopment project in the Cape Fear Region that demonstrates excellence in functionality, aesthetics, environmental sensitivity and sustainability and relationship to its surroundings.
CFCC Board of Trustees adds Wilson, Funderburk
Economic & Community Enhancement Award
Honors projects that promote economic development and/or enhance communities by improving quality of life and fostering the overall social and economic interest of those communities.
Career Advancement for Women Award
* Projects/Deals need to have achieved Certificate of Occupancy or substantial completion between January 1, 2021 and October 31, 2022 to be eligible for submission and must be located in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Onslow, Duplin, Sampson, Columbus or Bladen counties.
Beltre, a leader at several clinical research technology, services and health care afterjoinsorganizations,thecompanyservingas
The 2021 Membership Cup is only awarded to the HBA in the U.S. that achieved the highest ranking for 2021 in Group 2 for its efforts in both membership growth and retention. The local association competed with seven others of the same size across the country.
Beltre
Put your business in front of regional leaders and support CREW’s mission of advancing women in commercial real estate careers. For more information about partnerships or the event, please visit www.CapeFearCREW.org
College and master’s degree in En glish literature and rhetoric from the University of Maine.
hires, promotions or awards to
Best Development Award
The Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association (WCFHBA) re cently won two national membership awards from the National Associa tion of Home Builders (NAHB).
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 38 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal | ACHIEVERS |
senior vice president, provider solu tions, at Principia Health Sciences, according to a news release.
editor@wilmingtonbiz.comAdamsFebruary 16th, 2023 • 11:00AM • Wilmington Convention Center > Call for Entries for Commercial Real Estate Awards! Submit your project/deal for consideration. Membership not required – open to ALL. Deadline October 31st, 2022 • www.capefearcrew.org
Wilson
Partner with Cape Fear CREW!
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 39
Milner's Cafe & Catering 311 Judges Road, Suite 1A Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) info@milnerscafeandcatering.com350-8899www.milnerscafeandcatering.com 50%66 $16.9510-300and up
75%2530
Italian,
Coastal Catering and Events 19 Clubhouse Drive SW Supply, NC 28462 (910) www.coastalcateringandevents.comjoe@coastalcateringandevents.com842-8444
Chimere Allen Executive Chef, Owner 2019 List is based on voluntary responses to a Business Journal survey and includes companies whose business is made up of 50 percent or more from catering services. | THE LIST | 30 + YEARS PROVIDING A BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE WITH WILMINGTON’S MOST TRUSTED FIRM JANE MARR & ASSOCIATES Jane Marr Broker/REALTOR®(910)231-3343 JMARR.INTRACOASTALREALTY.COM @JANEMARRHOMES
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 40 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
Healthy and fresh corporate catering menus; specialize in creating custom menus for events Tara Owner/GeneralSpethManager2009
C.M.OwnerRogers1988
Southern,
Companies Ranked by number of full-time local employees RANK COMPANYADDRESS WEBSITEPHONEEMAIL NO. OF NO.EMPLOYEES/FULL-TIMEOFPART-TIMEEMPLOYEES/ % BUSINESS-CATERING MIN-MAX SERVED/ PRICE RANGE PER PERSON FOOD SPECIALTIES TOP YEAROFFICIAL/LOCALFOUNDED
Middle of the Island Catering 614 S. College Road Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) info@middleoftheisland.com256-4273www.middleoftheisland.com 100%10011
2
6
1
and Danielle Cousler Owners2006
Custom30-1,500pricing
Catering
80%2020
Any style of food; customized menus for clients Joe OwnerCaldropoli2007
Catering for weddings, parties, corporate events, military events. Offerings include chicken, pork and beef entrees, pastas, seafood, appetizers, salads, charcuterie board and Italian entrees.
Kathy Webb ChristiOwnersFerretti1997
A Thyme Savor Catering and Market Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) www.athymesavor.comjeff@athymesavor.com262-2962
3704
50-10,000$12-$90
Fresh scratch-made foods, custom Menus, certified Angus beef, local produce and seafood, paella, Southern specialties, unique appetizers, bite-sized foods
Jeff
4
Diamond Food Enterprises (Diamond Catering) 6726 Netherlands Drive, Suite 100 Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) diamondfoodenterprises@gmail.com392-7167www.diamondfoodenterprises.com 60%1512
Southern buffets, fried seafood, breakfast, prime rib/steamed oysters, crab legs; mobile kitchens for cooking on-site
$12-unlimited2-1,500
Asian
$5-$2002-2,000 Greek, American, country, French,
7 Premier Catering 20 Paisley Drive SW Shallotte, NC 28470 (910) premier_catering@yahoo.com442-6318www.premiercateringllc.com 80%01 $30-$1002-150 Caribbean, seafood, Italian, gourmet-style
5
3
SteveOwnerLambros1991
Pine Valley Market 3520 S. College Road Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) catering@pinevalleymarket.com350-3663www.pinevalleymarket.com 60%77 $10-$602-900
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 41 20222021 Source: Wilmington CVB Source: AAA JUNE SALES TAX COLLECTION (NEW HANOVER COUNTY) Source: N.C. Department of Revenue SALES TAX COLLECTION JUNE $28,757,7492022UPFROMSALESTAXCOLLECTIONJUNE2021 $25,045,476 20222021 JULY UNEMPLOYMENT NEW HANOVER JULY 2022: 3.2% DOWN FROM JULY 2021: 4.5% JULYBRUNSWICK2022: 4.3% DOWN FROM JULY 2021: 6.0% JULYPENDER2022: 3.4% DOWN FROM JULY 2021: 4.5% JULY AIRPORT PASSENGER TRAFFIC Source: Wilmington International Airport JULY 2022 DEPARTURES 54,720 DOWN FROM JULY 2021 DEPARTURES 55,710 JULY 2022 ARRIVALS 54,089 DOWN FROM JULY 2021 ARRIVALS 54,806 Source: Brunswick County Code Administration | ECONOMIC INDICATORS | Source: New Hanover County Environmental Health 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022* 100406020080 Source: Cape Fear Realtors 4003002001000500 722622522422322222122122111211021921821721 7/21 8/21 9/21 10/21 11/21 12/21 1/22 2/22 3/22 4/22 5/22 6/22 7/22 MONTHLY BUILDING PERMITS (BRUNSWICK COUNTY) CommercialResidential2005001003000400 2022JULY AUGUST MEDIAN HOME SALES PRICE (SINGLE-FAMILY, TRI-COUNTY AREA) 2020 2021 2022 $295,000 $337,000 $394,900400K200K250K300K350K50K100K150K ROOMJUNE OCCUPANCY TAX (NEW HANOVER COUNTY) $2,895,630 $3,147,966 AVERAGE PRICE PER GALLON FOR REGULAR UNLEADED IN WILMINGTON ON SEPT. 8, 2022: $3.64 AVERAGE PRICE PER GALLON FOR WILMINGTON ON SEPT. 8, 2021: $2.98 NEW RESTAURANTS IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY 2018-2022 YTD *2022 YTD as of Sept. 1 99 58 76 66 83
The owners of Chicken Salad Chick, 1131 Military Cutoff Road, Suite A, are eyeing a December or January opening of their second location at 503 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 104. The Leland space, while smaller than Chicken Salad Chick’s location at The Forum in Wilming ton, has a drive-thru window, which will give the restaurant another cus tomer service option.
Construction begins for rebranded Leland brewery
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Fermental quenches thirsts in Cargo District
Chicken Salad Chick, with more than 200 locations in the South, the Southeast and the Midwest, features 12 chicken salad variations along with soups, salads and a children’s menu. Everything, according to franchisee Haley Pinder, is made from scratch every day. The Wilming ton restaurant sees a wide variety of customers, from retirees who want a healthful, leisurely meal to working folks who stop in for a quick lunch or takeout.
A popular franchise in Wilming ton is preparing to add a new nest in
It’s been a long time bubbling up to the surface, but a brewery planned for the Leland Gateway District is laying its foundations this week.
Aiden Crofton and Brian Granger spent Labor Day weekend twist ing the nights away – and the days as well. “I was twisting pretzels constantly for 10 hours each day,” Crofton said. “That’s 30 hours’ worth of Crofton,pretzels.”owner of Crofton’s Pret zels, opened his new location Sept. 3 and had a line out the door. He and Granger, the shop’s general manager, were overwhelmed at the traffic to the new shop, a 2,000-square-foot former auto shop at 1620 Market St., at the corner of 17th Street. The pretzel shop’s original location, 6014 Olean der Drive, closed in March to allow the two to revamp the new space.
“There have been a lot of Ogden customers,” Steve Gibbs said. “It was a busy weekend.” Fermental launched in 2012 at 7250 Market St. In 2020, however, the Gibbses learned that the property – the site of several other small businesses in addition to the wine and beer shop –was for
“We’re back on track,” Said said. “We poured concrete today and we hope to be open in the first quarter of Owners2023.” initially dubbed their establishment 7twenty6 Brewing Co., but had to scrap that moniker because of a trademark issue.
The site is at 133 Old Fayetteville Road is across from Leland Town Hall. The brewery’s 2.5-acre site will feature a nearly 8,000-square-foot in dustrial-style building, 60% of which will be devoted to production. The surrounding site will be developed as green space for events and activities, including space for children to play.
Five months to the day after pouring its last beverage in Ogden, wine and beer shop Fermental quietly opened its doors at its new Cargo District location last month. “We didn’t want to announce it; we wanted to make sure everything was ready,” said Steve Gibbs, who owns the shop with his wife, Kristen.
Plans for the brewery were first announced in 2019, but since then, had been on hold, according to CEO Mark Said, attributing the delay “predominantly” to circumstances driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chicken Salad Chick nesting in Leland
Findingsale.nothing suitable for their business in the Ogden area, the couple looked downtown. Over these past few months, the Gibbses have moved equipment, navigated the permitting process and overseen the building’s renovation.
Leland Brewing Co.’s announce ment follows recent news that Leland’s first brewery, Brunswick Beer and Cider (a sister venture to Wrightsville Beach Brewery in Wilm ington), plans to open by the begin ning of October.
wilmingtonbiz.comPage 42 September 16 - 29, 2022 Greater WilminGton Business Journal
Despite the low-key start, quite a few familiar faces, as well as new ones, have already showed up at Fer mental’s new home at 600 S. 17th St.
Currently, the shop stocks “about 150” bottled craft sodas but will add beer in October when the business obtains its beer and wine license.
Pretzel shop’s new location sees busy first weekend
This is a sampling of stories from the Business Journal’s weekly Restaurant Roundup email. Subscribe at wilmingtonbiz.com.
As someone who often escaped to Wilmington’s beaches for rest and relaxation, Bakatsias also wanted to do his part for the community that has given him so much.
What makes the restaurant’s expansive menu exceptional is that the food is simple. However, diners shouldn’t let the word “simple” mis lead them. “Simple” doesn’t mean that preparing the food is easy and it doesn’t mean the food isn’t tasty, Delidimos said. What it does mean is that diners can “experience the purest form of the flavors and ingre dients of a country’s cuisine.”
The grouper, already a favorite of Kipos’ diners, is slow roasted in the oven and served with roasted toma toes, garlic sauce and fennel with a side of leafy greens and radishes. Another popular seafood dish is
Nicholas Bakatsias is bringing a slice of Greece to Wilmington. Bakatsias, the head of Giorgios Hospitality Group, is an award-winning restaurateur who owns several renowned restau rants in the Raleigh/Durham area. Kipos Hellenic Cuisine is the latest addition to his empire.
Kipos’s braised beef shortribs, which are served with orzo pasta and the Greek cheese gravierea, exem
Upscale Greek food on the menu
RESTAURANT ROUNDUP
Giorgios
plify the benefits of braising. The shortribs, which are baked over two days, are first marinated overnight with cloves, cinnamon and rosemary in red wine. Next, they are dry cured with sugar, salt and cinnamon, then seared, then slowly braised in the oven.“Braising gives different levels of depth to the dish,” said Delidimos. In homage to its coastal location, Kipos also offers a large variety of fresh, whole seafood, which is sourced from Motts Channel Sea food. Diners can choose from red snapper, grouper, tuna, sea bass, flounder, shrimp and scallops. The fish is so fresh it often has been caught the very day it is selected by a diner for Delidimosdinner.specializes in preparing the whole fish, which he said ensures the fish is moist and succulent. The fish can be fileted by a staff member or by the customer.
There is also a large selection of mid- to top-tier Greek wines and craft cocktails made from fresh herbs and citrus for customers who wish to imbibe. Dessert selections include ol ive oil chocolate mousse, made from Verona bitter chocolate and topped with sea salt and fresh fruit, and the Greek coconut cake, ravani, which is doused with a luscious Greek syrup.
BY LYNDA VAN KUREN
exceptional. The chef trained at the Swiss Culinary Institute in Athens, then apprenticed in hotels across Greece and Europe, before traveling to the United States and joining the Giorgios Hospitality Group. He has been with the Giorgios Hospitality Group for eight years and served as the executive chef of its Golden Fleece Slow Earth Kitchen in Ashe ville, which was recognized by Zagat as one of the “8 Hottest Restaurants and Bars in Asheville.”
However, Delidimos credits his grandmother for his love of cook ing, and he has brought some of her recipes and cooking techniques to Kipos. One of those is braising, which Delidimos uses for many meat and fish “Thesedishes.techniques have been used through the centuries,” said Delidi mos. “Braising lets the ingredients shine. You cook the food slowly at low heat, and that gives all the flavors time to develop. Whether it’s meat or octopus, we have a lot of braising in this kitchen and use it the most.”
“This community is so special, and I wanted to be a part of it,” he said.Bakatsias brought George Deli dimos to Kipos as executive chef. Delidimos stressed that Kipos’ Med iterranean fare is far more than the traditional Greek food like moussa ka (though the restaurant does serve the dish, and it’s made from scratch).
“I like to be known for sharing love through food,” said Bakatsias. “Even if I make a small difference in someone’s life, that is worthiness for me.”
PHOTO BY MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER
“There are a lot of great restau rants in Wilmington, but this style [upscale Greek food] is not here,” Bakatsias said. “I wanted to bring something to the community that adds value. Many people in Wilm ington have traveled widely and will appreciate elevated Greek cuisine. People who haven’t traveled still want the highest quality of fish.”
In keeping with Kipos’ high stan dards, the restaurant serves a variety of imported Greek cheeses, such as the above-mentioned graviera, aged feta and vlahotiri. Some are incor porated into dishes or sprinkled over salads, while others are served as stand-alones eaten with other little bites on the table.
Curating flavor: George Delidimos, executive chef at Kipos, said customers to the new Wilmington restaurant can “experi ence the purest form of the flavors and ingredients of a country’s cuisine.”
wilmingtonbiz.comGreater WilminGton Business Journal September 16 - 29, 2022 Page 43
With Delidimos’ extensive back ground in the culinary arts, he makes the “simple” food served at Kipos
| BUSINESS OF LIFE |
Kipos’ fisherman’s stew. The hearty meal is made of aromatic fish stock and filled with clams, mussels, shrimp, salmon, grouper, potatoes and roasted fennel.
In Kipos, Bakatsias aimed to make dining more than a meal.
Kipos is an upscale restaurant that emphasizes fresh seafood. It aims to serve the pure, simple, tasty dishes that diners can enjoy at the finest Greek restaurants throughout the world.Bakatsias’ decision to open Kipos came from a combination of oppor tunity and a desire to give back to the Wilmington community. When the space housing the former 1900 Restaurant and Lounge in Lumina Station came open, Bakatsias saw a good location at which he could fill a void in the area’s restaurant options.
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