On July 6, 2026, LendingTree Inc. (NASDAQ: TREE), a major player in the online financial marketplace, expressed its enthusiasm regarding the North Carolina AI Strategic Roadmap introduced by Governor Josh Stein. This initiative signifies North Carolina's ambition to lead in the responsible development and governance of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

2. Governor Stein's Vision

Governor Josh Stein emphasized the urgency and importance of responsible AI deployment in his remarks, stating, "Artificial intelligence is already changing how we work, learn, and serve the people of our state, and North Carolina must lead with urgency and care." The roadmap aims to protect citizens, prepare the workforce for future opportunities, and enhance government services to the public. Stein's vision aligns with the growing recognition of AI's transformative potential and the necessity for ethical guidelines and frameworks.

3. LendingTree's Role in AI Governance

LendingTree played a critical role in shaping the AI strategy through the contributions of Sarah Bacha, the company’s Senior Vice President and Head of Strategy and Analytics. Bacha served on the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council, which was tasked with creating recommendations to guide the state’s AI initiatives. Her involvement ensured the incorporation of practical perspectives on innovation, consumer protection, and transparency in the Council's deliberations.

"North Carolina's AI Strategic Roadmap is a model for how states can approach this rapidly evolving technology," Bacha stated. Her comments reflected the delicate balance between fostering innovation and establishing necessary regulations to build public trust in AI.

4. Emphasizing Responsible Innovation

For nearly three decades, LendingTree has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to empower consumers in making informed financial decisions. As AI continues to revolutionize financial services, the company has been a vocal advocate for policies that promote innovation while simultaneously safeguarding consumer rights, privacy, and the ethical use of technology.

At a recent Fintech + Insurtech Generations conference in Charlotte, Hala Shakra, LendingTree’s Director of AI Strategy, addressed the importance of governance in AI. "The mindset of governance is to not think of it as slowing AI down. If done well, it can create clarity. This is what teams need to help them move faster and continue to innovate," she asserted. This perspective underscores the belief that effective governance can facilitate rather than hinder technological progress.

5. Framework for the Future

The North Carolina AI Strategic Roadmap outlines a comprehensive framework that aims to advance AI across various sectors, including state government, education, workforce development, and economic growth. By positioning North Carolina as a competitive hub for future investments and talent, the roadmap promotes ethical and responsible AI adoption, ensuring that innovation and public confidence can advance in tandem.

6. Conclusion

LendingTree’s proactive involvement in shaping North Carolina's AI Strategic Roadmap highlights its commitment to responsible technology development. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into various sectors, the company's advocacy for balanced policies reflects its dedication to consumer protection and ethical governance. With initiatives like this roadmap, North Carolina is poised to emerge as a leader in the responsible utilization of AI, setting a precedent for other states to follow.

In a time where the implications of AI are increasingly significant, LendingTree stands at the intersection of finance and technology, guiding consumers toward smarter financial decisions while navigating the complexities of emerging technologies.

Original press release