At the North Carolina Department of Commerce, we do our best to conduct business in an open and transparent way.  To achieve this goal, the Department and our staff must be aware of - and sensitive to - the changing diversity of the State’s population, culture, as well as the needs of communities across the State when developing and implementing public participation, outreach and engagement programs.

The Public Access and Participation Plan is intended to be a living document that addresses the department’s ongoing efforts to engage in public participation and also guide our efforts to present clear and easy-to-consume information to everyone. This plan supports the equity and inclusion priorities of the state's First in Talent Strategic Economic Development Plan by providing all North Carolinians access to economic opportunities.

Guidelines | Public Access and Participation Plan

The plan will be updated every two years beginning June 1, 2026. The 2023-2025 plan can be viewed here. 

For more information, email us at communications@commerce.nc.gov 

Submit your comments on our Public Participation Plan