MDC

What started as an initiative in 1967 to support workforce development in North Carolina has grown into a pivotal organization known as MDC, dedicated to advancing equity and improving economic mobility across the South. Established under the leadership of George B. Autry as Manpower Development Corp, MDC was originally aimed at facilitating the transition from an agricultural economy to an industrial one, particularly focusing on the needs of an integrated workforce. Over the past 50 years, MDC has evolved, rebranding and redefining its mission to equip leaders, institutions, and communities with the tools and strategies necessary to foster systemic change. With a firm commitment to racial and gender equity, MDC champions initiatives that enhance educational access, economic opportunities, and community resilience.

Through in-depth research, data analysis, and stakeholder convening, MDC works tirelessly to illuminate the paths toward economic mobility for marginalized communities. The organization believes that every person deserves equal access to opportunities irrespective of their background or identity. Their impactful projects emphasize collaborative leadership, systemic strategies for change, and the importance of fostering environments where every individual can thrive. As MDC embarks on the next phase of its journey, the vision remains steadfast: to shape a South where all people can achieve their full potential, breaking the cycles of poverty and inequity that have long held back many communities.