Economic growth and sustainability are proving to be powerful partners in Wake County. Long‑term prosperity depends on resilient businesses, smart infrastructure, and thoughtful use of the resources that make Wake County such an attractive place to live and work. That’s where the Business Sustainability Roundtable (BSR) comes in.

In a recent episode of In Good Company with the Greater Raleigh Chamber, host Erica Rooney sat down with Albert Alwang, Director of Business Recruitment and Retention for Wake County Economic Development, to unpack how sustainability is becoming a core strategy for economic development—and why it matters now more than ever.

View the Podcast on Youtube | Listen to the Episode on Spotify

Economic Development Starts With People—and Businesses

Albert leads Wake County’s business recruitment and expansion efforts, serving as a “front door” for companies considering a move to or expansion in the region. But economic development isn’t just about landing new companies. It’s also about helping existing businesses thrive.

“These businesses employ our residents, generate tax revenue that funds schools and public services, and contribute to the fabric of our communities,” Albert explained. “If the companies already here are growing and doing well, that’s a strong signal that our economy is healthy.”

Retention Matters as Much as Recruitment

While new announcements often grab attention, retaining existing businesses is just as critical. Established companies have deep ties to the region and are among its strongest ambassadors.

“When local companies are successful and engaged,” Albert noted, “they tell a compelling story to others considering Wake County.”

How the Business Sustainability Roundtable Began

The BSR grew out of a real recruitment conversation. When FUJIFILM Biotechnologies explored Wake County for a new CDMO facility, they asked whether the community’s sustainability efforts could align with their corporate goals. That question highlighted a broader trend: many companies, particularly those with global operations, are held to long‑term sustainability commitments. Supporting those goals has become a competitive advantage.

“If we’re known as a community that takes sustainability seriously,” Albert said, “we’re better positioned to attract and retain companies that do too.”

Sustainability as a Business Imperative

Today, sustainability expectations come from customers, employees, supply chains, and investors. Through the BSR, businesses, sustainability leaders, and economic developers come together to focus on four key areas: energy, transportation, water, and waste.

Integrating sustainability into economic development is both practical and strategic. Early conversations allow communities to plan infrastructure more effectively, help companies reduce resource demands, and create future‑ready industrial sites—ultimately supporting more high‑quality employers.

“Sustainability doesn’t slow growth,” Albert emphasized. “It helps us grow smarter.”

Looking Ahead

Albert views the Business Sustainability Roundtable as more than a program—it’s a model for collaboration.

“It creates a space for companies and communities to align around a shared long‑term vision,” he said. “That alignment builds resilience.”

Sustainability and economic development aren’t competing priorities. In Wake County, they’re working together to build a future‑ready regional economy through thoughtful investment, transparency, and collaboration.