Metro SA Compass
Metro SA Compass is the Metro SA Chamber’s inaugural inter-city conference trip, bringing together approximately 50 leaders from the San Antonio business community to travel to Charlotte, NC for a multi-day experience focused on innovation, economic growth, and regional transformation. Attendees will engage directly with industry leaders, elected officials, economic development organizations, and major employers through curated conference sessions, site visits, and networking opportunities.
The purpose of Metro SA Compass is to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping growing metropolitan regions while bringing back ideas, partnerships, and strategies that can help strengthen the San Antonio community. More than just a conference trip, Metro SA Compass is designed to foster meaningful relationships and position the Metro SA Chamber as a convener of forward-thinking leadership and regional collaboration.
For the inaugural Metro SA Compass trip to Charlotte, NC, all attendees will stay at the Omni Charlotte Hotel, with accommodations coordinated by the Metro SA Chamber. The $3,500 registration fee includes a three-night hotel stay, conference programming, group transportation to scheduled sessions and activities, and select meals throughout the trip. Attendees are responsible for arranging their own airfare and transportation between the airport and hotel.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For registration, pricing, or sponsorship information, please contact Holly at Holly@MetroSA.com.
Monday, October 5, 2026
Location: Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo – 220 E Trade St Suite 2200, Charlotte, NC 28202
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Location: 132 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Conference Room: OneSouth Flex 1&2
Topic Statement: We will hear directly from Charlotte’s local elected
officials as they share their journeys in public service, key accomplishments,
and what makes Charlotte one of the most dynamic cities in the country.
Panelists:
Location: Bank of America Tower, 33rd Floor
Topic Statement: Leaders from Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo discuss how financial institutions drive local economic development — through talent pipelines, workforce reskilling, and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Panelists:
Location: Bank of America Tower, 33rd Floor
Topic Statement: Leaders from Truist and USAA discuss how financial institutions invest in the communities they serve, from backing entrepreneurs and innovation to meeting the needs of distinct populations.
Panelists:
Location: Pearl Innovation District, Center for Education – 915 Pearl Park Way, Charlotte, NC 28204
Topic Statement: This session will feature leaders from Advocate Health, Wexford Science & Technology, and IRCAD North America discussing Charlotte’s emergence as a growing life sciences and innovation hub. The conversation will explore how healthcare, workforce development, higher education, and private investment are helping shape the region’s future in biotech and biomedical innovation.
Panelists Companies:
• Advocate Health
• Wexford Science & Technology
• IRCAD North America
Location: Dubois Center, UNC – Charlotte
Topic Statement: Representatives from Central Piedmont College, UNC Charlotte, and Charlotte Works examine how education, job training, and community-driven initiatives are expanding opportunity and building the talent pipeline Charlotte needs to sustain its growth.
Panelists:
Location: Dubois Center, UNC – Charlotte
Topic Statement: Representatives from Charlotte Central City Partners, the Charlotte Sports Foundation, and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance explore how strategic investment, civic partnerships, and intentional planning are positioning Charlotte as one of the most competitive and fast-growing economies in the country.
Panelists:
Locations:
Hawkers Asian Street Food – 1930 Camden Rd #260, Charlotte, NC 28203
Indaco – 2046 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Location: 132 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Conference Room: OneSouth Flex 1&2
Topic Statement: Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the Charlotte Area Transit Authority, and the Charlotte Department of Transportation come together to examine how the region’s transportation network serves as a catalyst for economic growth and workforce mobility.
Panelists:
Location: Charlotte Fire Department Headquarters – 500 Dalton Ave, Charlotte, NC 28206
Topic Statement: Duke Energy, AT&T, and Charlotte Water examine how the region’s energy, water, and digital infrastructure are evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly growing Charlotte, addressing everything from grid modernization and broadband expansion to long-term resource planning and resilience.
Panelists:
Location: Charlotte Fire Department Headquarters- 500 Dalton Ave, Charlotte, NC 28206
Topic Statement: Charlotte’s Fire Chief and Chief of Police offer a candid look at how the city’s public safety leaders are navigating the challenges of a rapidly growing community, balancing effective response with transparency, trust, and long-term resilience.
Panelists:
Location: Truist Field, Diamonds Direct Lounge – 324 S Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Topic Statement: Charlotte’s city manager, Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte Knights, and Tepper Sports and Entertainment come together to explore how marquee venues and a thriving sports and entertainment ecosystem are reshaping the city’s economic landscape, from the renovations at Spectrum Center and Truist Field to the broader role sports plays in Charlotte’s future.
Panelists:
Location: Nascar Hall of Fame – 400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202
Topic Statement: Cap off the trip with a farewell dinner at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where Executive Director Winston Kelley traces the storied relationship between Charlotte and American motorsports — from NASCAR’s roots in shaping the city’s identity to its billions in regional economic impact, the Hall’s role as a civic landmark, and the pioneering corporate sponsorship model that continues to influence how brands and communities invest in one another. The evening will close with remarks from our Chairman of the Board and President & CEO, followed by a team-building activity to celebrate the connections made throughout the trip.
Keynote Speaker:
12930 Country Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78216
(210) 344-4848