Amazon is making a significant move to bolster its cloud computing and artificial intelligence capabilities with a massive $10 billion investment in North Carolina. Announced on June 4, 2025, this investment will fund the creation of a new high-tech cloud computing and AI innovation campus in Richmond County. This project is poised to transform the region and solidify North Carolina's position as a major technology hub.
The investment will primarily focus on expanding Amazon's data center infrastructure, which is crucial for supporting the growing demands of cloud computing and AI technologies. The new data centers will be equipped with computer servers, data storage drives, networking equipment, and other advanced technology infrastructure. This infrastructure will power Amazon Web Services (AWS), enabling businesses across various industries to transform their operations with cutting-edge cloud computing solutions and generative AI technologies.
The project is expected to create at least 500 new high-skilled jobs, ranging from data center engineers and network specialists to engineering operations managers and security specialists. Beyond these direct positions, the investment will also support thousands of additional jobs in construction, data center supply chains, and other related sectors.
Amazon is also committed to supporting the development of a skilled workforce in North Carolina. The company will collaborate with universities, community colleges, technical schools, and workforce development organizations to design and expand training programs relevant to data center construction, operations, and broadband expansion. Amazon is launching the Amazon Richmond County Community Fund with a $150,000 commitment for grants up to $10,000 supporting STEM education, sustainability, economic development, workforce development, and community well-being.
This investment is one of the largest in North Carolina's history and signifies Amazon's long-term commitment to the state. Since 2010, Amazon has invested $12 billion in North Carolina, contributing $13.1 billion to the state's GDP and supporting 24,000 full and part-time jobs, plus 26,000 indirect jobs. This latest project will further strengthen Amazon's presence and impact on the state's economy.
The strategic location of the new campus in Richmond County, approximately 70 miles east of Charlotte and 100 miles west of Raleigh, places it in a region poised for economic revitalization. The area has been impacted by the decline of textile and apparel industries. The campus, located in Rockingham's Energy Way Industrial Park, will span 800 acres and consist of 20 buildings ranging from 200,000 to 225,000 square feet.
State and local leaders have expressed strong support for Amazon's investment. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein hailed the project as a game-changer for Richmond County and the entire state. Richmond County commissioners approved an incentives package for Amazon. The company could receive annual cash grants for 20 years equal to portions of the real estate property tax and the property tax for vehicles and equipment at each data center contingent on job creation and monetary investment thresholds.
Amazon's $10 billion investment signifies a major step forward for North Carolina's technology sector and its broader economy. By establishing a cutting-edge data center and AI hub, Amazon is not only expanding its own capabilities but also creating opportunities for innovation, job creation, and economic growth in the state. This project will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on North Carolina, positioning it as a leader in the rapidly evolving fields of cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
