Prime Location and Unmatched Connectivity

One of Chatham County’s greatest advantages is its placement in NC. Nestled right in the center, between the Research Triangle and the Piedmont Triad, two of North Carolina’s most dynamic economic regions, Chatham provides easy access to major markets. Businesses benefit from proximity to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and major highways like U.S. 64 and I-85. This infrastructure allows companies to efficiently access key markets and attract top talent from surrounding regions. Companies also have access to smaller but still rather populated towns and cities, such as Sanford, Cary, Apex, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro.

A Thriving & Skilled Workforce

Chatham County boasts a growing labor force that is both skilled and adaptable. With access to top-tier universities such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Duke University, and many more, businesses have access to a well-educated and abundant talent pool. Additionally, Chatham County’s partnership with Central Carolina Community College ensures workforce training programs tailored to the needs of local industries, particularly in advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, and clean energy.

Business-Friendly Environment

Chatham County’s pro-business environment makes it an attractive location for companies of all sizes. The Chatham Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) works closely with companies to streamline the expansion process, providing site selection assistance, workforce development resources, and access to state and local incentives. Additionally, 79 West, an innovation hub in Chatham County, provides entrepreneurs and businesses with collaborative workspaces, networking opportunities, and access to a growing ecosystem of startups and industry leaders, further strengthening the county’s pro-business appeal.

Quality of Life That Attracts and Retains Talent

Beyond business advantages, Chatham County offers an exceptional quality of life that helps attract and retain top talent. With a blend of charming small towns like Pittsboro and Siler City, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a vibrant arts scene, employees enjoy a balanced lifestyle. The county’s affordability, strong school systems, and close-knit community make it an ideal place to live and work.

Conclusion

Chatham County offers businesses the perfect combination of strategic location, skilled workforce, and a supportive business environment. With ongoing industrial investments and a high quality of life for everyone, Chatham County may become one of North Carolina’s major economic hubs. If your company is looking to expand, there’s no better place than Chatham County to build a successful future.

Are you ready to explore business opportunities in Chatham? Contact the Chatham Economic Development Corporation today to learn how we can assist and support your expansion plans. Visit our website or contact us at 919-542-8274.

The post Why Chatham? The Strategic Advantage for Business appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

Booming Job Market

Chatham County is experiencing an incredible amount of economic growth, attracting major employers and industries. With projects like Wolfspeed, a manufacturing company specializing in wide-bandgap semiconductors, and MetOx International, which announced its expansion to Chatham County in December 2024, job opportunities are growing at an impressive rate. These developments are completely transforming Chatham County into a hub for innovation and sustainable business.

Diverse Career Opportunities

Whether it’s manufacturing, healthcare, or education, Chatham offers a variety of career paths. The county is home to both large corporations and small businesses, providing a vast number of options for different career choices. Additionally, with its close proximity to the Research Triangle, professionals in the area can also access an abundance of industries while enjoying the benefits of working in a less congested, community-focused environment.

Growing Population and Talent Pool

Chatham County’s population is set to grow around 19% in the next 10 years, almost 10% more than the estimated growth for the state of North Carolina. Evidently, the population in Chatham County is growing at a fast pace, meaning the workforce is set to expand even more, bringing in a diverse and skilled talent pool. As more people decide to relocate to Chatham County, businesses will benefit from this larger workforce. The influx of residents will also foster further economic growth, increasing demand for local services and strengthening workforce opportunities for new and current residents.

Work-Life Balance and Community Appeal

Beyond just career opportunities, Chatham offers a great work-life balance. The county is known for its dedication to preserving its green landscape, its outdoor recreational parks such as Jordan Lake, and its strong sense of community. Whether you are enjoying time with family at Havoc Brewery or taking a swim at Jordan Lake, families and professionals alike can enjoy a fun and adventurous lifestyle outside of work.

A Future of Growth and Innovation

As Chatham County continues to grow and prosper, both in community and workforce, the county is dedicated to “building a thriving community through services and solutions that are innovative, sustainable, and financially responsible” (“Learn About Chatham County”).

Working in Chatham County means being a part of a forward-thinking community that values economic sustainability, progress, innovation, and quality of life. Whether you are at the start of your career or looking for a new opportunity, Chatham County is an ideal place to work and grow.

The post Why Work in Chatham? appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

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FRONT AND CENTER

Chatham County is at North Carolina’s heart. Workforce, shovel-ready sites and a business-friendly approach, along with some geography, put it there.

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MEETING IN THE MIDDLE

Chatham County  is at the center of many success stories such as CTI, literally and figuratively. The U.S. Geological Survey determined North Carolina’s geographic center is near Gulf, about 15 miles southwest of the county seat — Pittsboro. ‘We are grateful for our fantastic geography that puts us in the middle of the Triangle and Triad,’ says Chatham Economic Development President Michael Smith, who notes the proximity to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, where more than 350 flights head to destinations near and far daily, and Research Triangle Park, home to cutting-edge companies. ‘One of the things that’s fascinating is that if you’re standing in the northeast corner of Chatham County, you literally are in walking distance to RTP,’ he says.

Chatham Economic Development Business Development Manager Jack Pendergraph says it wasn’t long ago that driving to the state’s capital seemed like a journey. ‘Now, they’re right around the corner,’ he says. “Travel time from downtown Raleigh to Pittsboro is about 35 minutes. A 45-minute drive in any direction enables you to do all kinds of things, like see a show or go to a ballgame.'”

To read more, visit Business NC’s website.

The post Community close up: Chatham County appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

During the event, discussions centered on prominent topics, such as major economic developments either already operational or currently in progress, such as Wolfspeed and Vinfast. Investors and the Chatham EDC also discussed other projects in surrounding areas.  These projects are certainly reshaping the local economy, and further positioning Chatham County as a growing hub for business and innovation—a notable trend that has become increasingly evident over the past few years.

Greg Lewis, owner of 39 West and Yolo Entertainment, expressed his appreciation for Chatham EDC’s role in fostering growth and opportunity. He remarked, “You bringing Wolfspeed just goes a long way. What you’re doing helps our county, and I appreciate it.” Lewis’s comments underscore the impact of Chatham EDC’s efforts to support significant developments in the county and surrounding regions.

As the event came to its final statements, Ray Covington, President of Covington Collaborative, LLC, commended Chatham EDC’s leadership and dedication to Chatham County. “By the way Michael, your team here and the work with Chatham County, bravo. You’ve really done great work.”  The Investors Appreciation Event was an opportunity for investors and key stakeholders to connect and discuss what is to come in Chatham County. As projects continue to shape the county, as well as its economy, Chatham EDC remains committed to its mission of promoting economic growth, fostering opportunity, and ensuring Chatham County continues to thrive for the growing community.

The post Chatham EDC Hosts Successful Investors Appreciation Event to Celebrate Community Support and Economic Growth appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.