CHARLOTTE, N.C. — October 21, 2026 — The North Carolina CCIM Chapter will host its inaugural NC CCIM Collegiate Commercial Real Estate Competition on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at The Co-Lab at UNC Charlotte Center City. Students from six North Carolina universities will demonstrate their analytical abilities, business acumen, and understanding of the commercial real estate industry.

The competition will challenge participating students to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to a commercial real estate case and present their work before a panel of industry experts. Students will compete for cash prizes and, of course, the bragging rights of being recognized as the inaugural competition champions.

Participating institutions include:

• Appalachian State University
• Duke University
• Elon University
• North Carolina A&T State University
• University of North Carolina at Charlotte
• University of North Carolina Wilmington

Designed to bridge academic learning and professional practice, the competition gives students an opportunity to engage with commercial real estate professionals, showcase their talents, and gain exposure to career opportunities across the industry.

“The future of commercial real estate depends on our willingness to invest in emerging talent and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation,” said Debbie Gallimore, CCIM, CIPS, 2026 President of the North Carolina CCIM Chapter. “This inaugural competition is about more than showcasing talent. It’s about bridging the gap between education and industry, fostering mentorship, building meaningful relationships, and inspiring students to see the possibilities of a career in commercial real estate. We are excited to bring these six universities together and look forward to seeing the creativity, innovation, and competitive spirit these students bring to the table.”

The competition underscores the North Carolina CCIM Chapter’s commitment to education, professional development, and strengthening the commercial real estate talent pipeline across the state. By connecting students with experienced practitioners and industry experts, the Chapter hopes to foster relationships that support future career growth and innovation.

The event is supported by commercial real estate industry partners who recognize the importance of investing in the next generation of professionals. Their involvement helps create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with the industry beyond the classroom.

The North Carolina CCIM Chapter is affiliated with the CCIM Institute, a global commercial real estate organization known for its education and the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation. The designation reflects expertise in financial analysis, market analysis, investment analysis, and commercial real estate decision-making.

About the North Carolina CCIM Chapter

The North Carolina CCIM Chapter is a professional organization serving commercial real estate practitioners throughout North Carolina. Affiliated with the CCIM Institute, the Chapter provides educational programming, networking opportunities, and professional development designed to advance excellence in commercial real estate investment and practice.

For more information, visit www.nc-ccim.org.

MEDIA CONTACT

Page Stroud, Chapter Administrator

North Carolina CCIM Chapter

pstroud@nc-ccim.org  |  (336) 854-5868