estled between the mountains and the beaches of North Carolina, there is a city where the adage of working hard and playing hard is a way of life. With over 70,000 people, Concord has become a mecca for businesses and people who take their dreams and put them into action.
   The city has a rich history of entrepreneurship. Companies like S&D Coffee, Concord Telephone Company, NorthEast Medical Center and many others are thriving after 100 years with millions in profits and thousands of great paying jobs. For example, S&D Coffee may not be a household name, but every time you drink a cup of java from McDonalds you are drinking an S&D product.
   The local government in Concord has been at the forefront of thinking outside of the box to ensure that any firm which wants to grow in Concord can. Local leaders have been visionary and worked hard to put into place the resources businesses need to succeed.
   Located between two interstates, I-77 and I-85, Concord and the Concord Regional Airport are in an enviable geographic location. Concord Regional Airport is now the 4th busiest airport in North Carolina – a statistic even more fascinating once you realize that the airport does not have scheduled commercial service. The airport corridor has become one of the fastest growing areas in the city and is now home to many diverse companies. The airport staff consistently wins awards for its outstanding customer service.
   Concord is home to over 30 race teams. Their operations require quick and convenient access to an airport. Three of NASCAR's most successful teams, Hendrick, Roush and Ganassi, are headquartered here. NASCAR's Research and Development campus also calls Concord home. Supporting these teams and companies are hundreds of smaller businesses in the area which have found a welcoming environment.
   Under construction is the Wind Shear wind tunnel. This automotive research facility will bring not only race cars, but passenger vehicle prototypes to Concord for testing. The only one of its kind in North America, this wind tunnel is another example of the visionary businesses finding Concord ideal.
   The city has worked hard to improve its services for businesses and developers. Along with long-range plans and an economic development staff, businesses will find a friendly business atmosphere. The city has put into place incentives to assist both small and large firms. Land and buildings are available for those who are ready to take a dream and turn it into reality.
   The city's historic downtown residential and business district is thriving. Small niche and home-based businesses are finding the area perfect for their endeavors. Citizens of the city do believe in high-performance living. There is an expectation of a high quality of life with good schools, recreational opportunities and a safe small-town atmosphere. Concord has a warm friendliness with an underlying feeling that we can be and do anything. The city seeks those who are also visionary and who are ready to work hard for success.