- Skilled, productive workers and a friendly labor environment – A growing and diverse population that fuels a high-quality labor force for today’s advanced manufacturing and knowledge-based industries. The lowest unionization rate in the nation keeps wages affordable and the workplace flexible.
- Comprehensive workforce development network – Customized recruiting, screening and training services and lifelong learning opportunities available through a coordinated network of agencies.
- Exceptional educational opportunities – Nationally recognized preschool programs, accountable public schools, accessible state community colleges and university systems and outstanding private institutions all constantly developing new talent.
- Proximity to major markets – A central east coast location and extensive transportation infrastructure within a 700-mile radius of more than 170 million U.S. and Canadian consumers with global connections via deep water ports and international flights.
- Global connectivity – Statewide high-speed internet access, 100% digital switching and other infrastructure investments for advanced voice, data and video communications and networking options.
- Competitive operating cost structure -- Construction costs, electric rates, overall taxes and cost of living indices all below the national average.
- A great place to live – Diverse geography and moderate climate for a variety of outdoor recreation. The state’s cultural offerings, rich history and variety of arts, and intense collegiate and professional sports rivalries create a quality of life that recruits new talent.
- A government that works for business – Our leadership makes strategic investments in education, infrastructure and technology and emphasizes sound fiscal policy through a constitutionally mandated balanced budget, reasonable tax rates and AAA bond rating.
- Performance-based, targeted incentive programs – Designed to lower your costs and increase global competitiveness, including discretionary grants in competitive situations and statutory tax credits for job creation, investments and research and development.
- Professional economic development assistance – The N.C. Department of Commerce provides support and expertise for businesses in the United States and around the world, no matter what phase of business they’re in.
For more answers to the question: "Why North Carolina?," download the 
Distinctive Advantages Chapter of our Fact Book.