EDC Archives - Chatham County Economic Development Corporation

Why Chatham? The Strategic Advantage for Business

Chatham EDC — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:07:28 +0000

Chatham County, North Carolina, is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for business expansion. With its strategic location in the heart of the state, its skilled workforce, and growing business environment, Chatham offers a variety of opportunities for companies looking to expand operations. Regardless of the scale of your business, here is why Chatham County should be on your radar, especially in the coming years.

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.

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How the Chatham EDC Supports Business Expansion

Chatham EDC — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:21:54 +0000

Chatham County is quickly becoming a thriving hub for businesses looking to expand, as we have seen with Wolfspeed and the recent announcement of MetOx moving to Chatham County. The Chatham Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is committed to ensuring that companies have the resources and support they need to expand operations in Chatham County. Whether it’s marketing Chatham County to companies across the U.S. and the world, recruiting targeted industries to the county, or assisting existing industries with issues related to growth and development, the Chatham EDC serves as a trusted partner in business expansion.

Proactive Business Retention and Expansion Support

Through its business retention and expansion program, the EDC helps companies overcome obstacles that may hinder growth, from workforce shortages to infrastructure needs. By connecting businesses with local and state resources, the EDC fosters an environment where companies scale efficiently.

Chatham County’s existing industries are the backbone of the local economy, with research indicating that approximately 75% of all job creation comes from businesses already established in the community. The county benefits from a diverse industry base that spans from semiconductor development to food processing and beyond.

The Chatham EDC supports existing industries in their growth by identifying public funding opportunities, connecting businesses to local workforce development resources, and facilitating customized training solutions to enhance their competitiveness.

Connecting Businesses to Essential Resources

Business growth often requires funding, land, skilled labor, or infrastructure, among other things. The Chatham EDC assists companies in identifying expansion opportunities within the county, whether through available properties or strategic partnerships.

Additionally, the EDC connects businesses with workforce development programs, such as those offered by Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) and NCWorks, to help train and retain skilled employees.

Success in Action

CTI Systems is one business in Chatham County that has benefited from the EDC’s support regarding their building.

When the company needed a new roof, the Chatham EDC helped identify funding assistance options that not only addressed their facility needs but also resulted in the creation of 20 new full-time jobs—each paying well above the county’s median income.

Looking Ahead

As Chatham continues to grow, the Chatham EDC remains committed to fostering the success of our existing industries while seeking new opportunities to ensure a prosperous future for both emerging and established businesses in Chatham County. By staying connected with local businesses and understanding their evolving needs, the EDC helps ensure that Chatham remains a top destination for business growth.

If your business is considering expanding to Chatham County, contact our office by phone at 919-542-8274.

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For the Third Time in Four Years, CNBC Names North Carolina as America’s “Top State for Business”

Chatham EDC — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 17:26:26 +0000

From the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s most recent article:

“Ranking in the top five for economy, workforce and business friendliness, the State garners the honor in a year of economic volatility thanks to outpacing the nation’s other states in job wins.

CNBC has named North Carolina as America’s Top State for Business in 2025, marking the third time the state has garnered the honor in the last four years. This morning, Governor Josh Stein joined CNBC’s Scott Cohn at Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington for a live broadcast where the winner was revealed.

“This confirms what we have known for a long time – that North Carolina is the best state in the country for business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our people, state’s business climate, top research universities and excellent community college system, infrastructure, and high quality of life help both companies and workers thrive. I want to thank leaders like former Governor Roy Cooper and state legislators of both parties who have helped North Carolina create a welcoming climate. I am proud of the progress our state has made, and we are just getting started.”

“This recognition reflects our relentless commitment to building a competitive, welcoming, and dynamic economy that creates opportunity for everyone,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “From our world-class workforce to our strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and innovation, North Carolina continues to lead the way as a place where businesses thrive, and communities prosper. We share this success with all of our partners across the public and private sectors and look forward to building on this momentum.”

Now in its 19^thyear, the CNBC study looked at 135 metrics in ten categories of competitiveness, an increase in metrics studied in prior years given today’s economic complexity. These are the factors companies consider year after year when making site selection decisions, and that states pitch in their efforts to attract business. Next, the CNBC team analyzes each state’s economic development marketing pitches to determine the appropriate weight for each category. The more that states are talking about a particular aspect of competitiveness, the more weight it carries in the rankings.

North Carolina ranked in the top five for economy, workforce, and business friendliness, and placed in the top 10 for education and access to capital this year. And of note, the state announced 17,586 jobs in 2024, along with $16.1B in investment.”

Watch Governor Stein’s Interview Here

Read the Official CNBC Article Here

North Carolina has been ranked the #1 state for business in three of the past four years and has consistently placed in the top five in 2019, and from 2021 through 2025.

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Why Work in Chatham?

Chatham EDC — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:32:48 +0000

At the center of it all, Chatham County is gaining traction very quickly as a prime location for job seekers and businesses alike. With the county’s strategic location, growing economy, increasing population, and quality of life, Chatham is more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. Whether you’re a skilled professional, a recent graduate, or looking for a new career, here’s why you should consider working in Chatham County.

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.

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Governor Cooper Announces Clean Tech Manufacturer Will Create 333 Jobs in Chatham County

Chatham EDC — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 18:37:07 +0000

From the North Carolina Department of Commerce,

“Governor Roy Cooper announced today that MetOx International Inc., a pioneering manufacturer of high-temperature superconducting wire, will build a major production facility in Chatham County, creating 333 jobs. The company will invest $193.7 million in North Carolina.

“Many cutting-edge technologies power the clean energy economy, and it’s great to see MetOx and its superconducting technology join us here in Chatham County,” said Governor Cooper. “Reducing carbon emissions will keep us safer and healthier while putting more money in the pockets of North Carolina families, and we’re excited to bring more clean tech company jobs to our state.”

MetOx, with headquarters in Houston, Texas, is a leader in High Temperature Superconducting technology (HTS) and the company is dedicated to advancing new energy solutions and establishing a resilient HTS manufacturing base in the United States. Through partnerships with strategic investors, MetOx is driving innovation and strengthening supply chains for critical superconducting applications across multiple industries.

HTS is an advanced power delivery technology, capable of transmitting extremely high power at low voltage with zero heat generation or energy loss. This breakthrough technology is revolutionizing critical energy sectors, including power transmission, distribution, and grid expansion, while uniquely meeting the high-power demands of AI-driven applications and hyperscale data centers. HTS is also pivotal in enabling high-field magnet applications such as next-generation wind turbines, motors and generators for clean aviation and aerospace, advanced defense systems, and magnetic confinement fusion energy.”

To read more, visit the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s website.

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Large construction firm acquires Triangle business

Chatham EDC — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:11:42 +0000

From Triad Business Journal, written by Cameron Snipes,

“S.T. Wooten Corp. of Wilson has announced its acquisition of Moncure’s Capital Ready Mix Concrete.

The acquisition includes Capital’s employees, four concrete plants, and trucks at two locations in Pittsboro and Knightdale, according to a press release.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

“The addition of Capital’s plants and employees will allow S.T. Wooten to further serve customers in growing markets like Chatham County and eastern Wake County,” stated S.T. Wooten President and CEO Christopher T. Wooten.

To read more, visit Triad Business Journal’s website.

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Community close up: Chatham County

Chatham EDC — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 15:45:36 +0000

From Business NC, written by Kathy Blake,

”

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.

[…]

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.

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Chatham EDC Hosts Successful Investors Appreciation Event to Celebrate Community Support and Economic Growth

Chatham EDC — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 18:18:15 +0000

The Chatham Economic Development Corporation (EDC) recently held its semi-annual Investors Appreciation Event, last Thursday, October 3^rd at Forest Hall in Pittsboro. This event brought together key stakeholders and community leaders to celebrate the vital role that our investors play in the growth and development of Chatham County. The attendees were provided an opportunity to network, enjoy amazing food provided by 39 West, and receive important information on current and upcoming projects that are shaping the future of Chatham County and surrounding areas.

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.

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