Amazon commits $10 billion to transform North Carolina's tech landscape

In a significant move for rural economic development, Amazon has announced a $10 billion investment in Richmond County, North Carolina, aimed at establishing a data center and artificial intelligence campus. This announcement was made public on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, and is expected to create at least 500 new jobs directly while supporting thousands more through construction and supply chain activities. The investment represents one of the largest in North Carolina's history, aiming to revitalize an area that has faced economic challenges due to the decline of textile and apparel jobs, which were once prevalent in the region. The Richmond County project aligns with Amazon's broader strategy to expand its cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The local government has expressed strong support for the initiative, with county commissioners approving an incentives package that may include significant tax breaks contingent on job creation and investment thresholds. This partnership between Amazon and local officials is seen as a catalyst for long-term economic growth and technological advancement in the county. The initiative will also trigger improvements to critical infrastructure, including water systems and broadband networks, at no extra cost to county taxpayers. Amazon's chief global affairs and legal officer, David Zapolsky, highlighted the importance of this investment by stating that it will position North Carolina as a hub for cutting-edge technology while creating hundreds of high-skilled jobs. In an era where artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping various sectors, the establishment of this campus in Richmond County resonates with ongoing conversations about innovation and workforce development. Furthermore, Amazon has committed to supporting local educational institutions and workforce training programs, which will facilitate the development of a skilled labor force for the data center sector. Governor Josh Stein acknowledged the project's potential to attract top technology companies and noted that North Carolina has previously seen similar investments, including those from Apple, further reassuring the community of its emerging role in the tech industry. According to Amazon's estimates, their past investments in North Carolina since 2010 amount to approximately $12 billion, supporting around 24,000 full- and part-time jobs. The implications of this new campus could significantly alter the economic landscape of Richmond County, making it a model for other regions aiming for similar transformations through high-tech industry investments.