Charlotte Region Sees Significant Growth In Foreign Direct Investment
By Grant Lincoln and Shawn Cummins – Charlotte Regional Business Alliance
The Charlotte Region is now home to more than 1,000 international businesses, according to new research by the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. The region has emerged as a major hub for international business, with foreign direct investment (FDI) playing a crucial role in driving new growth and development.
Since 2022, Charlotte has attracted more than $2 billion in foreign capital, generating more than 5,000 new jobs across industries such as energy, telecommunications, and manufacturing. FDI has significantly contributed to diversifying the economy, creating thousands of jobs, and attracting a skilled workforce.
Strategic industry growth and high-wage job creation
Foreign companies have helped to accelerate the region’s growth in industries like advanced manufacturing, financial services, and automotive technology. The influx of foreign capital allows these industries to scale more quickly, making them more competitive in both domestic and global markets. Additionally, foreign investments often create high-wage jobs, especially in tech-driven sectors, helping to elevate income levels and improving the overall economic health of the region.
“Foreign direct investment is crucial for economic growth in Charlotte, as it drives innovation and job creation while showcasing our region’s ability to attract a diverse global workforce,” Hannah Little, managing partner at Garfinkel Immigration Law, said.
International investment in the Charlotte Region
Germany leads foreign direct investment in the region, with 191 companies and more than 17,700 jobs. The United Kingdom and Japan have also made substantial investments here, leading to job creation and economic diversification. Projects from major international firms have infused millions of dollars into the local economy, supporting industries that are critical for Charlotte’s long-term development.
“Charlotte’s ability to attract FDI can be attributed to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly environment,” Gretchen Carson, director of business recruitment at the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, said. “Charlotte offers exceptional access to both domestic and international markets. Its transportation infrastructure provides significant advantages for global companies by reducing customs duties and enhancing trade efficiency. Additionally, Charlotte’s favorable tax structure, economic development initiatives, and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for international businesses.”
One of the key drivers behind Charlotte’s FDI success is its highly skilled and diverse talent pool. The region is home to top-tier educational institutions and targeted skills training programs that ensure a steady pipeline of qualified professionals. With more than 300,000 internationally born residents, Charlotte’s global workforce is well-suited to meet the demands of foreign companies, making it an appealing location for businesses looking to expand and innovate.
“This trend reflects a broader pattern of increasing globalization, where talent flows across borders to meet the demands of a dynamic economy,” Little said. “By welcoming international investors and professionals, we not only strengthen our local economy but also enrich our community’s cultural diversity, positioning Charlotte as a leading hub in the global marketplace.”
To learn more about foreign direct investment in the region, visit charlotteregion.com.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance is the leading voice of business for the City of Charlotte and the 14-county, bi-state region. Formed in 2018 through the merger of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and the Charlotte Regional Partnership, today’s CLT Alliance is the only regional economic development organization that grows the economy, advocates for business, and convenes diverse stakeholders. Our mission is to enthusiastically collaborate to promote and advance the Charlotte Region, creating opportunity, economic growth, and prosperity for all. To learn more, visit charlotteregion.com.
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