North Carolina to Add 16,956 Jobs in 2024 with Major Business Projects

North Carolina to Witness Major Economic Boost with New Job Announcements

In a promising development for the State of North Carolina, a total of 16,956 new jobs are slated for creation in 2024. This surge in employment is driven by 218 projects focused on business recruitment, expansion, or rural development, all facilitated through collaboration with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C. The projects are expected to bring a substantial $15.2 billion in capital investment to the state.

Governor Josh Stein expressed optimism about the state’s economic prospects, emphasizing the role of the workforce and business climate. “Thanks to our talented workforce and our robust business environment, North Carolina is a top state for work and business,” Stein stated. “As Governor, I will continue to invest in our economic development and ensure that these opportunities reach all corners of our state.”

Compared to the previous year, 2024’s job and investment figures represent a significant increase from 2023, which saw 14,114 jobs and $12.9 billion in capital investments. North Carolina’s reputation as a business-friendly state remains strong, with CNBC ranking it second in its Top States for Business review for the fifth consecutive year. Notably, North Carolina held the top spot in both 2022 and 2023.

North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the state’s successful economic strategies. “North Carolina’s economic development team continues to perform at the highest level as the most dynamic companies from around the world recognize us as a top state for business,” Lilley remarked. “We’ll continue to bring great jobs for all North Carolinians while focusing our attention on building back stronger than ever in Western North Carolina. I am excited to get to work with this great team.”

Key Projects Driving Job Growth in 2024

Some of the standout initiatives contributing to this job growth include:

Natron Energy: Establishing the first sodium-ion battery gigafactory in the U.S. at the Kingsboro Megasite in Edgecombe County, creating 1,062 jobs.

Novo Nordisk: Expanding manufacturing operations in Johnston County, adding 1,000 jobs.

Boviet Solar: Developing a major solar panel manufacturing facility in Pitt County, resulting in 908 new jobs.

Ross Stores: Building a Southeast region distribution center in Randolph County, which will create 852 jobs.

FUJIFILM Diosynth: Expanding biopharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in Wake County, creating an additional 680 jobs.

Notable Investments in Tier 1 and Tier 2 Counties

Significant investments are also set to occur in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties, including:

Johnson & Johnson’s (Janssen Biotech): A $2 billion investment in Wilson County for a new pharmaceutical manufacturing campus, generating 420 jobs.

SCHOTT Pharma USA: Opening a new production facility in Wilson County, resulting in 401 new jobs.

American Titanium Metal: Launching a new aerospace-grade titanium manufacturing facility in Cumberland County, creating 304 jobs in Fayetteville.

Amrep Manufacturing Company: Expanding operations in Rowan County to produce waste collection trucks, adding 170 jobs.

Kyowa Kirin: Establishing its first North American pharmaceutical manufacturing operation in Lee County, creating 102 jobs in Sanford.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce is the primary agency driving community, workforce, and economic development efforts across the state. To explore the full range of programs and services offered, visit their directory.