About Us

The City of Charlotte’s Economic Development Department plays a vital role in shaping our city’s economic future, driving job creation, fostering business growth, increasing the tax base and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

The Charlotte Economic Development team:

Develops and implements strategies to attract and retain businesses.
Drives talent development.
Fosters public/private partnerships and corridor revitalization.
Supports small business and entrepreneurial growth.

We are a full-service team and organized into three divisions that work collaboratively with city leadership to achieve the overall mission:

Public-Private Partnerships Business Recruitment and Talent Development Business Innovation

Mission

To make Charlotte the best place to do business today and in the future by generating equitable economic growth opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and maximizing resources. Collectively, the team advances the community by creating and sustaining great places, cultivating an environment where all businesses can innovate and prosper, and fostering a diversified talent pipeline with an ongoing focus to elevate efforts.

Leadership

Shahid “Sha” Rana, Director, CEcD

Director, Economic Development

Background

Became economic development director in June 2025.
Has nearly two decades of experience, including small business and entrepreneurial support, business attraction and retention, and commercial and neighborhood planning and redevelopment.
Before joining the City of Charlotte, served for five years in Mecklenburg County’s Office of Economic Development, most recently as the deputy economic development director.
Previously, he held several leadership roles in economic and community development in Baltimore, Philadelphia and New Jersey.
Earned a bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University, a master’s degree from the University of Maryland and holds graduate certificates from the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University.
Is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council.

Record of Success

Led successful business attraction and expansion efforts, including Subaru’s North American headquarters, Campbell’s Soup’s headquarters expansion, Siemens Energy and Albemarle Corporation.
Has also demonstrated success in supporting small and under-utilized businesses, including funding and capital coordination.
In 2024, was named one of The Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 under 40.