Strengthening the Foundation for Sustainable Growth

As CDE’s work continues to grow, so does the importance of investing in the people, systems, and infrastructure that make that work possible. 

This year, we focused on strengthening the organization’s internal capacity while expanding our visibility, partnerships, and long-term sustainability. Together, these efforts help ensure CDE can continue serving communities, supporting partners, and advancing digital opportunity for years to come. 

This Year’s Focus

People

Leadership

Systems

Planning

Investing in People and Organizational Capacity

Strong organizations are built by strong teams. 

Throughout the year, CDE invested in professional development opportunities designed to strengthen leadership, collaboration, communication, and project management skills across the organization. 

Through a structured professional development calendar, team members participated in learning experiences ranging from project management and communications training to leadership development and team management coaching. 

Managers and directors also participated in a leadership development series facilitated by professional coach Dan Houston, helping build stronger foundations for collaboration, team support, and organizational effectiveness. 

At the same time, the organization continued refining internal systems, onboarding resources, workflows, and planning processes that support sustainable growth and improve how work is coordinated across teams. 

Strengthening Systems and Decision-Making

As the organization grows, efficient systems become increasingly important. 

This year, CDE expanded its use of data dashboards, reporting tools, automation, and performance tracking systems to improve visibility into programs, partnerships, and organizational outcomes. 

Working alongside Strategon, the team enhanced HubSpot reporting capabilities, expanded CRM data models, and developed new dashboards that support more informed decision-making and stronger partner reporting. 

One example is the Atrium Health dashboard, which provides real-time access to data and reporting that supports accountability, transparency, and ongoing collaboration. 

The organization also continued implementing stronger project management practices, standardized procedures, and planning processes that help teams manage work more effectively while maintaining focus on strategic priorities. 

Growing Visibility, Partnerships, and Sustainability

This year marked several important milestones in CDE’s organizational growth. 

The organization launched a redesigned website that improves user experience, streamlines navigation, and creates clearer pathways for residents, partners, and funders to engage with CDE’s work. 

CDE also continued expanding its digital presence through social media, content marketing, thought leadership, podcasts, public speaking engagements, and earned media coverage. 

At the same time, the organization strengthened partnerships and diversified revenue opportunities that support long-term sustainability, including new collaborations focused on workforce development, digital skills, artificial intelligence, and digital opportunity. 

Together, these efforts continue positioning CDE as a trusted convener, thought leader, and partner working to advance digital opportunity across North Carolina. 

FY26 at a Glance