BUSINESS STRENGTH
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CCCP
Patents: UNC Charlotte is the largest
research institute within a 90-mile radius of the city. The University ranks first in the number of startups for every $10 million of research and development funding, second in the number of
“Charlotte USA continues to get things done that promote our collective prosperity. That is because we have a common vision for a stronger future, one that we all can share.” ~ Bob Morgan, President Charlotte Chamber
Location Advisors July 2007. The ranking is based on educational attainment of the work force 25 years and older.
patent applications and third in patents issued.
Population growth: The median age of
Attracting young professionals: Char-
the estimated 100,000 newcomers, an
lotte MSA is among leading cities in attracting
amount larger than the total population of
the young, professional and educated—a cov-
Asheville, N.C., who moved to the Charlotte
eted demographic. A recent study released by
region in 2005, is 29, compared with 38 for
the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce
non-newcomers (Census ACS 2005). The
ranks Charlotte 2nd among 50 largest metro-
newcomers are more likely to be single, well-
politan areas, behind only Las Vegas, in this
educated and more than twice as likely to
demographics’ growth rate (1990-2000), and
work in the IT field as current residents.
total employment of 350,000. Eye on the future: The Charlotte Chamber has developed Advantage Carolina, a plan
5th in its share of an area’s overall population.
Foreign firm friendly: Charlotte is the top
to foster business expansion while attracting
Nearly 17 percent of Charlotte-area residents
U.S. city in growth for foreign firms. Within the
new firms. This focus on the future ensures
are young professionals.
16 counties of Charlotte USA, more than 800
that the region will continue building its envi-
Educated work force: Charlotte takes the
foreign firms operate and employ almost
able business strength.
No. 1 spot as the city with the Most Educated
60,000. North Carolina and South Carolina are
Work Force by Business Facilities, The
home to more than 1,800 foreign firms with a
Charlotte Regional Economic Development Guide 2008
Other notable recognition: • MarketWatch ranks Charlotte 5th in Best U.S.
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