Iredell EDC Highlights Record Investment, Workforce Progress, and Community Growth at 2026 Annual Meeting
The Iredell County Economic Development Corporation (Iredell EDC) welcomed a sold-out audience of more than 340 business, government, education, and community leaders today for its 2026 Annual Meeting at The Venues at Langtree. Presented by Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital, which is celebrating 100 years of service to the Lake Norman community, the event highlighted the partnerships, investments, and leadership driving Iredell County’s continued economic success.
“This annual meeting is an opportunity to celebrate what we have accomplished together and to reaffirm our shared commitment to building a prosperous future for Iredell County,” said Jeff Cernuto, Chairman of the Iredell EDC Board of Directors, and President of Princeton Communities. “The growth and momentum we are experiencing are the result of strong public-private partnerships and a community united around a common vision.”
During the program, Iredell EDC President & CEO Jenn Bosser presented highlights resulting from the Iredell EDC’s and the community’s efforts and sustained growth trajectory over the last four years. Since 2021, both Iredell County’s population and labor force have grown by 10% respectively, average wages have increased by 27%, and industrial inventory has expanded by approximately eight million square feet. The county now supports more than 100,000 employed residents and continues to rank among North Carolina’s fastest growing and most attractive destinations for business investment and talent.
Reflecting on the organization’s accomplishments from the past fiscal year, the EDC team managed more than 225 project inquiries, hosting 26 site visits, supporting 30 new and expanding company announcements, and helping facilitate $1.22 billion in announced investment and the creation of 741 new jobs. Leading those announcements was Compass Datacenters, representing the single largest announced capital investment project in Iredell County’s history.
In addition, the EDC helped facilitate the entitlements of 1.2 million square feet of industrial product through projects including LKN Crossing and Alliance Mooresville at 77 and is nearing completion of a road expansion project at Mooresville Business Park East that was supported by a Golden Leaf Fund. Over the last five years, Iredell County’s industrial inventory has grown by 20%, resulting in 17 Class A industrial parks and a strong pipeline of future development opportunities. Having available buildings and sites brings interest from existing and new companies to invest in Iredell and create new jobs for residents.
Recognizing the opportunities and challenges that accompany rapid growth, Iredell EDC partnered with the Centralina Regional Council to establish the Iredell County Growth & Infrastructure Committee, bringing together local governments, elected leaders, business leaders, and education partners. The initiative is focusing on addressing long-term infrastructure, transportation, utility capacity, workforce, and growth-related issues to help ensure Iredell County remains competitive while preserving the quality of life that makes the community attractive to residents and businesses alike. The committee recently completed its initial research and stakeholder engagement phase and is now advancing recommendations and collaborative strategies to support future growth.
Workforce development remained a central theme throughout the presentation. Through the Iredell Ready initiative, local partners continue building a stronger talent pipeline to support employers and residents alike. Recent successes include a fourfold increase in career and technical education credentials earned by high school students, growth in Mitchell Community College enrollment, a 91% high school graduation rate, and Iredell County’s selection as one of eight North Carolina communities chosen to participate in the MyFutureNC AttainmentNC initiative, supported by a $200,000 grant to advance educational attainment and workforce readiness.
Demonstrating strong confidence in Iredell County’s future, Iredell EDC successfully completed its annual Investor Campaign, surpassing its fundraising goal and securing more than $1.3 million in annual investment from its public and private investors. These resources support the organization’s efforts to attract new jobs and investment, strengthen the local workforce, develop competitive sites and buildings, and advocate for initiatives that enhance the county’s economic competitiveness and quality of life.
The meeting celebrated continued organizational growth with the appointment of Brett Alkins, Chief Operating Officer of EnergyUnited, to the Iredell EDC Board of Directors. Alkins joins a diverse leadership team representing business, government, education, and community organizations committed to strengthening economic opportunity throughout Iredell County.
Attendees heard from a distinguished lineup of economic and industry leaders, including Matthew Martin, Regional Executive with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond; David Kalosis, Founder and Principal of Strategic Insights, LLC; and Alan Lewis, Managing Partner of the Industrial Division at The Keith Corporation. Together, they provided perspectives on the national economy, population and housing trends, industrial development, and the opportunities and challenges shaping the region’s future.
Martin shared a cautiously optimistic economic outlook, noting that businesses continue to report resilient demand despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding inflation, labor markets, and global economic conditions. He emphasized that many employers expect staffing levels to remain stable while adapting to changing market dynamics.
Kalosis highlighted North Carolina’s position as the nation’s leading destination for domestic migration and noted that Iredell County remains one of the state’s fastest-growing communities. According to his analysis, the county has grown by approximately 72% during the past 25 years and is projected to add another 43,000 residents over the next decade, reinforcing its appeal as both a business location and a place to live.
Lewis discussed the strength of industrial development throughout the Carolinas and Iredell County’s competitive advantage within the Charlotte region. He pointed to strong long-term demand, a strategic location, expanding industrial inventory, and continued interest from domestic and international companies as indicators of sustained economic opportunity. Alan also shared additional insights into The Keith Corporation’s recent purchase of 900 acres within Larkin Industrial Park and plans for development.
“As we look ahead, we are incredibly optimistic about Iredell County’s future,” said Bosser. “We continue to attract investment, develop talent, strengthen infrastructure, and create opportunities that benefit businesses and residents alike. The momentum we celebrated today reflects the collective efforts of our local governments, investors, educators, business leaders, and community partners who are committed to building a strong future for everyone in Iredell County.”
Iredell EDC expressed appreciation to Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital for serving as presenting sponsor during its centennial year, as well as luncheon sponsors The Keith Corporation and DENSO, and the many investors, sponsors, elected officials, and partners whose support makes the organization’s work possible.
For additional data and annual report highlights you can View the 2026 Annual Meeting Report.
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