South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper recently addressed the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) Board of Directors, emphasizing the state's economic achievements during his administration. The Governor highlighted job creation and workforce development as key successes.

"With our skilled and diverse workforce and strong economy, it’s clear that North Carolina is the best state to do business, and companies around the world know it," stated Governor Cooper. He credited investments in worker skills for strengthening the state's economy.

Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders praised Governor Cooper's leadership in focusing on workforce availability through the 'First in Talent' strategic plan. "We’re now enjoying the fruits of this investment in North Carolina’s workforce development and training systems," she said.

Gene McLaurin, Chairman of EDPNC's Board of Directors, also commended the Governor's efforts: "The Governor’s economic achievements have set North Carolina up for success for years to come."

Under Cooper's tenure, North Carolina has been named CNBC’s Top State for Business twice and ranked second in 2024. The state has added over 640,000 jobs since 2017 across various sectors such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

Significant job announcements include Toyota with 5,100 jobs and $13.9 billion investment, Apple with 3,000 jobs and $1 billion investment, among others. These developments are part of a broader push towards a clean energy economy initiated by Executive Order 80 in 2018.

Efforts to support historically underutilized businesses have resulted in over $3.9 billion spent on goods and services from these firms since 2017. The RETOOLNC program distributed more than $40 million to minority- and women-owned businesses affected by the pandemic.

Broadband access expansion is another priority, with over 139,500 households benefiting from GREAT grants aimed at increasing high-speed internet availability.

Governor Cooper has prioritized community college investments through initiatives like Workforce Resilience Grants and STEPs4GROWTH programs to prepare students for future jobs. The Longleaf Commitment program supports low- and middle-income students attending community colleges.

Additionally, Finish Line Grants have assisted over 16,000 students facing financial emergencies to complete their education. Early childhood education received significant funding with $1.1 billion allocated for child care stabilization grants across North Carolina.

Paid parental leave was extended to state employees through Executive Order No. 95 to promote gender equality and retain a strong workforce. A Child Care Business Liaison role was created at the Department of Commerce to enhance access to quality child care.

###