Join ExCEL NC and the Land of Sky Child Care Economic Summit to explore the economic impact of the childcare crisis and how business leaders can drive solutions.
In 2025, Western North Carolina experienced a net loss of 15 child care programs, reducing licensed capacity in the region by 430 slots. In the Land of Sky region alone, more than 20,000 workers experience workplace disruptions related to child care issues.
Child care-related employee turnover and absenteeism costs Land of Sky’s employers $97.1 million every year. What’s more: the region is missing out on an additional $29 million annually in tax revenue because of the lack of affordable and accessible child care options.
Together, this means that the child care crisis is costing the Land of Sky region more than $126 million per year in economic activity. This is not how we set our region, our businesses, and our children up for success. ExCEL NC is looking to change that.
Addressing child care issues for working parents could increase North Carolina’s GDP by up to $7.5 billion per year. During this Child Care Economic Summit, we’ll start exploring ways that we can turn this economic projection into a reality.
At this event, you’ll hear from an engaging panel of business and industry leaders, gain insight from a substantive presentation by research and policy experts, and participate in a meaningful dialogue with fellow attendees who are equally committed to finding solutions.
We look forward to your participation as we explore the intersection of business, family, and early childhood education—and discuss how North Carolina can move toward a stronger, more sustainable future.
Interested in Attending?
For more information about this event, please reach out to Emily Blevins at emily@excelnc.org.
