Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats

SWOT ANALYSIS

The 2023-2028 CEDS process includes an in-depth look into our region’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) using public surveys, public listening sessions, and available data analysis. Key themes were identified for all four categories. While there are plenty of positive features and incredible opportunities in the region, we also recognize the negative in order to develop solutions and change the narrative.

Click on the headings below to navigate to more information about the region’s
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

Strengths

  • Strong transportation/roadway infrastructure with I-40/I-85 and I-73/I-74 corridors, making for suitable commute times and Distribution/Logistics Hubs
  • Low Cost of Living – 4.8% Below National Average
  • Remarkable Public and Private Higher Educational Institutions, including three renowned Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU)
  • Exceptional and Adaptive Community Colleges offerings
  • Established Advanced Manufacturing cluster with recent development of mega sites
  • Centrally located Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTIA) and Amtrak Rail Service
  • Availability of numerous outdoor recreation options and protected parks
  • Access to Quality Healthcare Services
  • Celebration of Arts and Cultural Heritage
  • Continued Population Growth as the Piedmont Triad is a top destination
  • Presence of existing industrial sites primed and zoned for redevelopment
  • Promotion of Equity
  • Downtown and Main Street investment and resurgence

Weaknesses

  • Competition among other Regional Jurisdictions
  • Limited Public Transportation options in Urban and Rural Counties
  • Weak Broadband Connectivity and Cellular Coverage in Rural Counites
  • Supply Chain Inefficiencies with Labor and Input Shortages
  • State Budget cuts impacting K-12 Education
  • Stagnant Income Levels

Opportunities

  • Regional Collaboration and Engagement with Developing a marketable brand
  • Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem network to facilitate small business development, growth, and support
  • Develop Accelerators, Incubators, and Multi-use spaces for start-up businesses
  • Continue maintenance and capacity building of public utility infrastructure
  • Recruitment of remote workers to the region
  • Develop a unified mobility resource page of available resources across all geographic areas
  • Increased educational funding for Apprenticeship and College Promise Programs
  • Changing demographics and Increasing Diversity
  • Continue investments in Aviation technology advancement and air mobility, biotechnology, healthcare, and public service
  • Encourage an increase in capital access to minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses

Threats

  • Lack of industry sector diversity by over reliance on and targeting recruitment efforts on traditional or one-industry employers
  • Inconsistent and changing land development and zoning regulation policies
  • Affordable Housing Options
  • Affordable Childcare Options
  • Perception of Crime Rates
  • Ability to attract and retain young professionals