The innovation campus will feature computer servers, data storage, networking equipment and more, creating 500 high-paying jobs for the region
Amazon has announced today it is planning to invest $10 billion to launch a new high-tech cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campus just east of Charlotte in Richmond County, creating at least 500 new high-paying jobs.
The new data centers located within the campus will include computer servers, data storage drives, networking equipment, and other forms of technology infrastructure used to power cloud computing capabilities, and generative AI technologies.
“Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and innovate, and I am pleased that North Carolina will stay at the forefront of all that’s ahead as we continue to attract top technology companies like Amazon,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Amazon’s investment is among the largest in state history and will bring hundreds of good-paying jobs and an economic boost to Richmond County.”
North Carolina continues to emerge as a leading destination for tech industry investment, due to its business-friendly environment, robust infrastructure, and skilled talent pool. Home to more than 192,000 tech professionals, the state has ranked a top three state to do business five years in a row by CNBC and a top 10 state for cybersecurity according to Business Facilities. With strengths across software, life sciences, fintech, defense, and entrepreneurship, North Carolina is investing significantly in the resources and infrastructure needed to support continued tech innovation and growth.
“Amazon’s decision to invest in North Carolina speaks volumes about the strength of our technology ecosystem and the confidence global companies have in what our state offers,” said Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “We have greatly enjoyed getting to know the AWS team through this process and are confident that they will be a great partner to North Carolina for a long time to come.”
This investment marks one of the largest single capital investment announcements in the history of the state of North Carolina.
“Amazon’s $10 billion investment in North Carolina underscores our commitment to driving innovation and advancing the future of cloud computing and AI technologies,” said David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer. “This investment will position North Carolina as a hub for cutting-edge technology, create hundreds of high-skilled jobs, and drive significant economic growth. We look forward to partnering with state and local leaders, local suppliers, and educational institutions to nurture the next generation of talent.”
“Richmond County is thrilled to welcome Amazon Web Services (AWS) to our community, and we’re proud that AWS has chosen Richmond County as a key location for its continued growth and innovation,” said Martie Butler, an economic developer with Richmond County.
The project will leverage one of EDPNC’s North Carolina Selectsite Readiness Program sites—specifically designed to accommodate industries like AI and advanced manufacturing – this, along with state and local agency partnerships, have been critical to Amazon’s decision.
About Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud, and its data centers enable customers of all sizes and across all industries, such as automotive, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, public sector, and more, to transform their businesses. Millions of customers—including the fastest-growing startups, largest enterprises, and leading government agencies—are using AWS to lower costs, become more agile, and innovate faster.
About the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina
The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) is a private nonprofit corporation that serves as North Carolina’s statewide economic development organization. Governed by an 18-member board of business and industry leaders from across the state, the EDPNC focuses on business and job recruitment, existing industry support, international trade, tourism, and film marketing. The EDPNC, which operates under contract with the North Carolina Department of Commerce, works closely with public- and private-sector partners at the state, regional, and local levels.
