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This content first appeared in Economy & Business 2026. Click here to view the full publication.
By Michael Haley, Wake County Economic Development
Wake County closed 2025 with remarkable growth and progress in economic development — momentum that will shape our region for years to come. Looking ahead to 2026, we anticipate another strong year driven by Wake County’s competitive advantages: a robust talent pipeline, a world-class higher education ecosystem, a dynamic and diverse economy, and an exceptional quality of life. As we prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead, three critical areas will define our economic trajectory in 2026:
Growth and Infrastructure
Wake County remains one of the fastest-growing metros in the nation. To sustain this growth, we must prioritize smart, strategic development. Infrastructure— transportation, power, housing, and wastewater—must keep pace with demographic and economic trends. Success will depend on a policy and regulatory framework that enables growth rather than constrains it.
Advancing our Innovation Ecosystem
The U.S. economy is undergoing a profound industrial transformation—a new era defined by advanced technologies and interconnected ecosystems. These ecosystems are reliant on regions building comprehensive, collaborative networks necessary to support their growth. Those metros that can, will thrive. Wake County is at the forefront of this transformation as one of the most diverse and innovative economies in the nation. We must ensure radical collaboration across Wake County and the Research Triangle region.
Sustaining Momentum Through Fundamentals
Wake County is part of a select group of high performing regions nationwide. To maintain this position, we must double down on the fundamentals: supporting existing companies, investing in education, fostering entrepreneurship, and addressing infrastructure challenges head-on. Complacency is not an option! What we do now will determine whether we seize this moment and elevate our community to the next level. The opportunity before us is extraordinary. By focusing on smart growth, economic mobility, innovation, and strong fundamentals, Wake County can continue to thrive as one of the nation’s most dynamic and forward-looking regions.
“Wake County’s future will be defined by bold action—smart growth, radical collaboration, and a relentless
focus on innovation. This forward momentum is bolstered by an unwavering commitment to our community’s fundamentals that ground our dynamic economy.”
- Michael Haley, Executive Director, Wake County Economic Development, Senior Vice President, Greater Raleigh Chamber
“We have worked hard to welcome people from all over the world to experience what makes us truly unique. We’ve seen record investment not only from across the United States, but from companies around the world who recognize the strength of our workforce, our universities, and our collaborative business climate. The global interest in our region has never been higher – the secret is out! The Research Triangle region is quickly becoming one of the most dynamic and globally connected regions in the country.”
– Ryan Combs, Executive Director, Research Triangle Regional Partnership
“Wake County is seeing incredible population growth. We’re gaining about 66 new residents every day across our community. They’re drawn to our thriving economy, top-notch education and healthcare options, and a quality of life that is second to none. To support our 1.2 million residents, we’re following the priorities laid out in our Strategic Plan. They focus on advancing housing affordability, enhancing public safety, increasing transit ridership and expanding protected green space.”
– David Ellis, County Manager, Wake County
