ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. – November 04, 2026 -- The Rocky Mount Event Center has generated an estimated $27.3 million in economic impact so far in 2026, about 86 percent of its $31.8 million full-year 2025 total, as it prepares to host the 47th Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Volleyball Championship on November 9–11.
Eight teams will compete at the 165,000-square-foot downtown venue
Eight of the conference's top volleyball programs will play for the title at the city-owned facility, which is operated by The Sports Facilities Companies. Admission is free to the public. CIAA representatives are due to arrive Saturday, November 7, and participating teams on Sunday, November 8, which adds visitor activity ahead of the first match.
The CIAA, founded in 1912, is an NCAA Division II conference and describes itself as the nation's oldest historically Black athletic conference.
Venue reports 24 tournaments and 63 catering events in 2026
The Event Center's 2026 impact figure already covers most of last year's total, and additional events are scheduled through year-end. The venue has hosted 24 sporting tournaments and 63 catering events this year.
Visiting teams, conference staff and supporters are expected to use hotels, restaurants and retailers across Nash and Edgecombe counties. General Manager David L. Joyner said the event is about "creating meaningful economic opportunities for local businesses" and building the region's standing in sports tourism.
Tourism partners ask local businesses for promotions and extended hours
The Event Center is working with Nash County Travel & Tourism and community partners to enlist businesses in welcoming visitors. Restaurants, retailers and hotels are being encouraged to run special promotions, extend hours, set up storefront displays and engage on social media.
Barbara Green Brabham, executive director of Nash County Travel & Tourism, said the county sees the championship as a way to introduce new visitors to the area and open the door to future sporting events.
The promotional campaign uses two hashtags: #RoadToRockyMount builds anticipation, and #WeMadeItToTheMount will mark the arrival of teams and supporters.
The championship takes place at 285 NE Main Street, Rocky Mount, N.C.