The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation named the NC Chamber Foundation a finalist in the 2026 Citizens Awards, a long-standing program that honors businesses and chambers of commerce for their leadership in solving major community challenges. The NC Chamber Foundation was recognized in the Best Education and Workforce Program category for its leadership of the NC Health Talent Alliance.

Led by the NC Chamber Foundation in partnership with NC Area Health Education Centers and the NC Center on the Workforce for Health, the NC Health Talent Alliance is tackling the state’s critical health workforce shortages by aligning training programs with employer demand. Nine employer-led, regional talent pipelines have been established across the state to coordinate employers, training providers, employees, and community partners. 

The Citizens Awards recognize innovative and impactful initiatives that leverage organizational talent, resources, and expertise to improve communities. 37 organizations are named Citizens Award finalists across nine categories. The winners of the 2026 Citizens Awards will be announced during the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Business Solves Conference on October 27-28.

Learn more about the 2026 Citizens Awards finalists from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.