June 5. Amazon will invest $10 billion to launch a new high-tech cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campus in Richmond County, creating at least 500 new high-paying, high-tech jobs.

Amazon’s investment is among the largest in state history. Construction alone is expected to support thousands of jobs.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud computing solution. The new data centers will contain computer servers, data storage drives, networking equipment, and other forms of technology infrastructure used to power cloud computing capabilities and generative AI technologies.

Quotable

“This investment will position North Carolina as a hub for cutting-edge technology, create hundreds of high-skilled jobs, and drive significant economic growth. We look forward to partnering with state and local leaders, local suppliers, and educational institutions to nurture the next generation of talent,” said David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer.

Richmond County, whose county seat is Rockingham, approved cash grants up to 50% of annual property taxes and 65% of personal property taxes for 20 years, but no state incentives have been approved for the project yet.