David Putnam
Economic Development Director
ContactAdoption of first Economic Development Strategy
About Us
The Town of Chapel Hill’s Economic Development Department works to positively influence the economic vitality of our community. Our work ranges from supporting our existing business ecosystem, expanding our business community, and improving the Downtown experience and livability. We are committed to making Chapel Hill a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable place to work, live, play, and shop.
Meet Our Team
We would welcome the opportunity to talk to you about joining our business community, discuss our economic development initiatives, or share resources and information about local programs!
Economic Development Achievements
2008
2009
Small Art Business Loan Program leads to creation of Frank Art Collective
2011
2012
Redevelopment of Coal Ash Site. (2022)
2013
Founding of Launch accelerator
2014
Adoption of Form Based Code for Blue Hill
2014
Adoption of Development Agreement for Glen Lennox
2016
Wegmans Incentive – jobs, tax base and redevelopment
2016
Carraway Village Incentive – Road improvements
2018
2019
Glen Lennox Incentive – Office Building
2020
2020
Well Dot Inc. – Incentive for Employees and location
2020
East Rosemary Redevelopment project and Parking Deck
2021
MOU for Police Station property (828 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) redevelopment
By working alongside several non-profit and government organizations we are able to amplify our impact and better serve our community.
Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership
The Partnership maintains, enhances, and promotes Downtown as the social, cultural, and spiritual center of Chapel Hill through economic development. They serve as advocates to advance our Downtown business community.
Launch Chapel Hill
A startup accelerator, co-working space, and community of innovators where all people are supported to encourage innovative thinking, individual empowerment, community outreach, economic development, and impactful change that lifts everyone.
Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro
The Chamber helps local business owners to grow their social networks, build meaningful new relationships, access information and resources to lead, and maximize opportunities that create a lasting impact on the community.
Orange County Economic Development
The Orange County Economic Development team offers business expansion, retention, and relocation assistance. Provides information on commercial and industrial space availability.
Other Partners
Contact Us
Thinking about opening or relocating a business to Chapel Hill? We would welcome the opportunity to meet with you, talk to you or share information critical to your decision making process. Contact us and let us show you how we are Open2 you!
