Holly Springs Economic Development Forum
As a Chamber Member, and business owner, I recently attended the Holly Springs Economic Development Forum and wanted to share a few insights from the discussion.
As someone who serves families and business owners throughout our community, I found the conversation encouraging and informative regarding the future of Holly Springs. Whether you reside in, or around Holly Springs, the information discussed, may impact your lifestyle as large businesses continue to be part of what our town has become.
The Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce hosted the forum to discuss the continued growth and economic success of Holly Springs and the broader Triangle region. Moderated by Jon Harol, Owner of Lighthouse Labs, the discussion featured Albert Alwang of Wake County Economic Development, Ryan Combs of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, and Irena Krstanovic, Economic Development Director for the Town of Holly Springs.
Together, they provided a behind-the-scenes look at how Holly Springs has become one of North Carolina's leading destinations for business investment, while discussing the opportunities and challenges that accompany rapid growth.
Key Takeaways
Holly Springs' Growing Reputation
- Holly Springs is being positioned nationally and internationally against larger markets such as Boston, New York, California, Illinois, and Massachusetts.
- The region is attracting attention from companies and leaders around the world, including Japan, Switzerland, and Denmark.
- Major life science investments from companies such as Fujifilm and Genentech have helped elevate Holly Springs' global profile.
- The Triangle's reputation continues to grow as a destination for business investment, innovation, and workforce development.
Why Companies Choose Holly Springs
- Strong workforce pipeline supported by:
- 12 colleges and universities throughout the region.
- Approximately 175,000 students and 40,000 graduates annually.
- A highly regarded North Carolina community college system.
- High quality of life and family-friendly communities.
- Business-friendly environment and strong regional cooperation.
- Access to talent, transportation, and research institutions.
Life Sciences and Economic Development
- Holly Springs has become a recognized case study for life science recruitment and expansion in North Carolina.
- Economic development leaders emphasized attracting employers that provide:
- High-quality jobs.
- Competitive wages.
- Career advancement opportunities.
- Long-term community investment.
- The focus remains on diversifying the tax base and creating sustainable economic growth.
Resident Concerns and Smart Growth
- The most common concerns expressed by residents include:
- Traffic congestion.
- Infrastructure needs.
- Affordable housing.
- Preserving quality of life.
- Town leadership emphasized that growth is inevitable, but how growth is managed is what matters.
- The goal is to maintain intentional, smart growth that aligns with the community's long-term vision.
Supporting Small Businesses
- Holly Springs continues to be a strong environment for entrepreneurship, with approximately 700 new businesses registered last year.
- Community leaders recognize the need for:
- Additional retail space.
- More dining and entertainment options.
- Greater support for local entrepreneurs.
- Continued investment in downtown Holly Springs.
- The town is exploring ways to encourage smaller commercial spaces that are more affordable for locally owned businesses.
Infrastructure and Future Challenges
- Significant investments are being made in transportation, utilities, and public infrastructure.
- Wastewater capacity and environmental permitting were identified as potential constraints to future industrial growth.
- Long-term planning is focused on ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with economic development.
Workforce Development
- Partnerships with Wake Tech, NC State, local schools, and industry continue to play a critical role in workforce preparation.
- Programs are expanding to help:
- Veterans transition into civilian careers.
- Military spouses find employment opportunities.
- Students connect directly with local industries and employers.
Regional Cooperation
- One of the Triangle's greatest strengths is the collaboration between counties, municipalities, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations.
- Leaders repeatedly emphasized that a win for one community is often a win for the entire region.
- This cooperative approach was identified as a significant competitive advantage over many other metropolitan areas.
Looking Ahead
- Holly Springs currently has approximately 56,000 to 57,000 residents, with roughly 3,500 approved housing units still to be built.
- Economic development leaders believe additional growth opportunities remain ahead.
- Success will ultimately be measured by whether future generations can:
- Afford to live in Holly Springs.
- Find meaningful career opportunities.
- Continue to enjoy the quality of life that attracted residents to the community in the first place.
Overall Takeaway
Holly Springs is no longer viewed as simply a fast-growing town. It has become a nationally and internationally recognized center for life sciences, innovation, and business investment. Community leaders remain focused on balancing continued economic growth with infrastructure planning, small business development, workforce preparation, and preserving the quality of life that has made Holly Springs one of the most desirable communities in North Carolina.