North Carolina’s Global Investment Push at SelectUSA Summit
In a significant move to bolster North Carolina’s economic standing, Governor Josh Stein is actively promoting the state at the U.S. Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Summit. This gathering provides a platform for highlighting North Carolina’s advantages in attracting foreign investment, an effort underscored by Stein’s participation in the Governors Attracting Global Investment panel.
“Economic development is a team sport, and no team works harder than Team North Carolina,” said Governor Josh Stein. “North Carolina offers a strong value proposition to investors. We offer a hub of innovation across growing industries, and our state’s most important strength – our people – will always be prepared to work in the jobs of today and tomorrow.”
Echoing this sentiment, N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley stated, “Foreign direct investment plays a powerful role in strengthening our economy and bringing new capital, new ideas, and new opportunities to communities across our state. When global companies choose to invest here, they strengthen our economy and reinforce our place in the global marketplace.”
At the summit, Governor Stein joined other state leaders, including Governors Moore (MD), Pillen (NE), and Stitt (OK), to discuss foreign direct investment strategies. Stein highlighted North Carolina’s dedication to workforce and site development, focus on key industries, and the long-term partnerships that have positioned it as the 2025 Top State for Business.
The governor and Secretary Lilley also engaged with international stakeholders, meeting with representatives from countries including Austria, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, and Switzerland.
Recent investments in North Carolina underscore its appeal. Last year, the state celebrated the opening of Toyota’s first battery plant in the state, part of a $13.9 billion investment set to create over 5,100 jobs in central North Carolina. Similarly, in 2024, Novo Nordisk from Denmark invested more than $4 billion in Clayton, promising 1,000 jobs in Johnston County for producing treatments for chronic diseases.
Japan, Germany, China, Canada, Italy, and the United Kingdom lead the list of countries investing in North Carolina since 2020. The state’s strategic East Coast location provides easy access to global markets, with Charlotte housing American Airlines’ second-largest hub. Combined, the airports in Charlotte (CLT) and Raleigh (RDU) offer nonstop flights to 24 international destinations.
Governor Stein emphasizes workforce development as a priority, recently outlining his recommended budget for FY 2026-2027. It aims to strengthen the state by expanding job opportunities through various apprenticeship programs, supporting sectors like advanced manufacturing and healthcare.
Read More Here
Comments are closed.