North Carolina’s Competitive Edge: Governor Stein Advocates for Foreign Investment
Raleigh, N.C.
As North Carolina aims to strengthen its position in the global market, Governor Josh Stein is actively promoting the state’s investment opportunities at the U.S. Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA Investment Summit. This week, he participated in the Governors Attracting Global Investment panel to emphasize the state’s competitive advantages for foreign investors.
“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.”
North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley echoed these sentiments, highlighting the crucial role of foreign direct investment in enhancing the state’s economic landscape. “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,” said Secretary Lilley. “In a rapidly changing world, these investments help ensure North Carolina remains competitive, resilient, and ready for the future.”
During the panel discussion, which also included Governors Moore (MD), Pillen (NE), and Stitt (OK), Governor Stein underscored the importance of workforce and site development in supporting North Carolina’s target industries. These efforts have positioned the state as the 2025 Top State for Business. Additionally, both Stein and Lilley engaged with various foreign delegates and ambassadors to strengthen international ties.
Last year, a significant milestone was reached with the opening of Toyota’s first battery plant in North Carolina, part of a $13.9 billion investment, which is expected to create over 5,100 jobs in central North Carolina. In 2024, Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company, announced a $4 billion investment in Clayton, projected to add 1,000 jobs focusing on treatments for chronic diseases.
Japan, Germany, China, Canada, Italy, and the United Kingdom have been the top countries investing in North Carolina since 2020. The state’s strategic location on the East Coast offers significant access to global commercial markets. Moreover, Charlotte is a major hub for American Airlines, providing more nonstop flights than any city of its size, while airports in Charlotte and Raleigh offer nonstop flights to 24 international destinations.
Governor Stein remains dedicated to workforce development across the state. Recently, he announced a recommended budget for FY 2026-2027 aimed at enhancing job and career opportunities. This budget proposal includes funding for youth apprenticeship programs, work-based learning grants for small businesses, and increased support for apprenticeship programs in various high-demand sectors, such as advanced manufacturing, aviation, healthcare, and more.
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