Mission    Vision   Goals    Members   Strategic Plan

Mission
The Mayor's International Cabinet serves as a forum for international issues and acts as an advocate to local government in support of the international communities, organizations and businesses of the city of Charlotte.  


Charlotte's Vision as an International City

• Informed Citizenry.  A citizenry that is part of the global community and that recognizes the importance of the relationship between the life and prosperity of the Charlotte region and the rest of the world.
• Committed Civic Leaders.   A civic leadership that is well informed about world affairs and fully committed to enhancing Charlotte's role as an international city.
• Active Business Community.  A business community committed to integrating the region's industrial, financial and commercial institutions into the world economy.
• Supportive Environment.  An environment that promotes an international perspective, an appreciation of other cultures and the acceptance and integration of people of all nationalities, religions and ethnic backgrounds.
• International Opportunities.  A multitude of opportunities for students and citizens of all ages to enrich themselves through cultural exchanges and international education programs.
• Global Linkages.  A wide range of financial, commercial, educational, cultural and social linkages around the globe that integrate Charlotte into the world community.
  

Goals for Charlotte's Internationalization

• Visibility and Awareness. Improve global and domestic awareness of Charlotte as an international city.
• Community Services and Welcome.  Develop an environment that welcomes and values international visitors and citizens.  
• Education.  Develop cultural understanding and tolerance within the community; ensure that education teaches a sense of the interconnectedness of the world today.  
• Higher Education and Business.  Coordinate education and business to ensure an educated and trained work force.  
• International Business and Economic Development:  Support both foreign investment in the Charlotte region and expansion of local industry through exports and investment abroad.  
• International Organizations.  Support the non-profit international organizations and promote their effective coordination.
  

Cabinet Membership
The Mayor's International Cabinet is composed of thirty appointed members and twelve ex-officio members, representing a diverse group of interests in Charlotte.  Members are appointed by the mayor, city council, and city manager for three year terms. One third of the members will turn over each year.

Members are volunteers and are not compensated for their work, though regular attendance and involvement are required. For more information on how to become a member of the Mayor's International Cabinet, contact the Mayor's International Cabinet office at (704) 336-2174 or by e-mail at mic@ci.charlotte.nc.us.


International Strategic Plan
Recognizing the need to guide Charlotte's international growth, the Mayor's International Cabinet and the City of Charlotte published an "International Strategic Plan" in 1994.

A model for other U.S. cities seeking to develop an international strategy, this unique document is nationally recognized and emulated. ¨The "International Strategic Plan" consists of an "International Vision for the 21st Century," six strategic goals, and an action plan for accomplishing this vision.  

Click here to View the International Strategic Plan.