Amazon announced plans Wednesday to invest $10 billion in a major new campus in North Carolina, aimed at expanding its data center and artificial intelligence capabilities. The project is expected to significantly boost the economy in Richmond County, a rural area once known for its textile industry.

The investment will create at least 500 direct jobs and support thousands more through construction and related supply chains, according to statements from Amazon and North Carolina Governor Josh Stein. Stein described it as one of the most significant economic investments in the state's history.

Data centers already have a notable presence in North Carolina — Apple, for example, operates facilities there. But Amazon’s project is poised to be transformative for Richmond County, located on the state’s southern border with South Carolina and home to roughly 42,000 people.

The facility will employ a range of skilled workers, including engineers and cybersecurity professionals. Amazon also committed to partnering with universities, community colleges, and workforce development programs to train people in data center operations and broadband technologies.

“This investment will establish North Carolina as a center for advanced technology, while generating hundreds of high-skill jobs and substantial economic benefits,” said David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief of Global Affairs and Legal. He emphasized the company’s intent to collaborate with local governments, suppliers, and educational institutions to build a pipeline of future talent.

On Tuesday, Richmond County commissioners approved an incentive package for Amazon. According to The Richmond Observer, the company will be eligible for annual cash grants over a 20-year period based on property and equipment tax rebates, provided it meets job creation and investment targets.

“This project will reshape our community in ways we can’t yet fully envision,” said Richmond County Manager Bryan Land during the meeting. He noted that accompanying infrastructure upgrades — including water, wastewater, and fiber-optic improvements — would come at no cost to local taxpayers.

Governor Stein’s office referred to the development as an “innovation campus,” saying it will house servers, data storage, networking gear, and other high-tech equipment.

“Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way we work and create,” Stein said at a public event in Hamlet on Wednesday. “North Carolina will remain at the forefront of this transformation by continuing to attract top-tier tech companies like Amazon.”

Amazon noted that it has invested $12 billion in North Carolina since 2010 and currently employs around 24,000 full- and part-time workers across the state.