North Carolina has been named the top state for business by CNBC, marking the third time in four years that it has achieved this recognition. Governor Josh Stein expressed pride in the state’s achievements, crediting North Carolina’s business climate, research universities, community college system, infrastructure, and quality of life for the accolade. “This confirms what we have known for a long time – that North Carolina is the best state in the country for business,” he stated.
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley emphasized the state’s commitment to building a competitive economy. “This recognition reflects our relentless commitment to building a competitive, welcoming, and dynamic economy that creates opportunity for everyone,” he said.
Christopher Chung, CEO of EDPNC, highlighted North Carolina’s strategic partnerships as key to its success. “North Carolina’s recognition as the best state for business for the third year in the last four is a testament to an economic development strategy that relies on the power of partnerships,” Chung noted.
The CNBC study evaluated states across ten categories of competitiveness. North Carolina scored 1,614 points out of a possible 2,500, excelling in Economy, Workforce, and Business Friendliness.
Since January, Governor Stein has announced projects expected to bring nearly $17 billion in new capital investment and over 20,000 jobs to North Carolina. He also signed an executive order establishing the Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships to improve workforce development.
Governor Stein launched initiatives addressing child care accessibility and student safety in schools. He remains committed to recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and recently announced a tourism initiative with Visit NC aimed at western North Carolina.
