Military veterans looking to launch and grow a business are finding opportunities in Wake County and the broader Raleigh-Cary region. A new study from The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes ranked Raleigh-Cary as the #2 Top U.S. City for Veteran Entrepreneurs in 2026, placing it among the nation’s strongest markets for veteran-owned business success.  

The ranking evaluated 387 metro areas across factors including livability, support for veterans, economic growth, and ease of starting a business. Raleigh-Cary held its No. 2 position for the second consecutive year, reflecting the region’s combination of a strong economy, business-friendly environment, and deep talent pool.  

For veteran entrepreneurs, those advantages translate into access to customers, capital, professional networks, and growth opportunities across industries such as technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and professional services. 

As the region continues to attract investment, talent, and new companies, Wake County remains a place where entrepreneurs can start, grow, and scale businesses while benefiting from one of the nation’s most dynamic and diverse economies.