FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) is proud to welcome North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall for a free public event, Empowering Small Businesses for Financial Readiness on April 28, 2026. This session will offer valuable resources and direct access to state officials for small business owners and community members across the region.
This free panel event is hosted by the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State in collaboration with FTCC and Fayetteville State University. The event is inspired by the Rural RISE NC initiative and designed to equip small business owners with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to build financially resilient businesses primed for growth.
The event schedule is as follows:
- 8:30– 9 a.m. - Arrivals and check-in
- 9-9:20 a.m. - Call to order, opening remarks
- 9:20–9:45 a.m. - Welcome remarks by Secretary Marshall
- 9:45–10:55 a.m. - Fire side chat with panelists. Moderated open discussion and Q&A with live audience participation.
- 10:55 a.m. – Final remarks
- 11 a.m. Adjourn
- 11-11:30 a.m. – Networking
Whether attendees are launching a new venture or looking to expand an existing one, this session offers expert insights tailored specifically to North Carolina small businesses. Secretary Marshall’s guiding principle — ”Business Starts Here!” — reflects the state’s commitment to providing resources for establishing, funding, and sustaining businesses at every stage.
The event is free and open to the public. Seats are limited. Registration is required. Visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/nvu6raf to register.



























