DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. DECA enhances the co-curricular education of members through a comprehensive learning program that integrates into classroom instruction, applies learning, connects to business, and promotes competition.

DECA’s activities assist in the development of academically prepared, community-oriented, professionally responsible, experienced leaders. DECA’s attributes and values describe our priorities and standards. We value competence, innovation, integrity, and teamwork in preparing college- and career-ready students.

North Carolina DECA has over 11,200 members, representing approximately 150 chapters across the state. Having been a charter member of the International Association, North Carolina DECA is proud to historically be one of the top 10 largest associations on the international level.