Raleigh Innovation & Technology Zone Poised For Green Economy

A recent Pew Center reports cites North Carolina as one of the top states for "green" job growth, and suggests that we are poised to grow in the new green economy. The Raleigh Innovation and Technology Zone (RITZ), an economic development zone proposed by city council candidate Lee Sartain, could potentially accelerate the growth of green jobs in the region.

The study reported that over 1700 green business are located within the state. Job growth with these businesses grew 15.3% as compared to the statewide average of 6.4%. If the city fully implements the RITZ plan, businesses will be aided with these benefits:

• Healthy Tax Credits: Up to $3750/per new job created in the RITZ
• Research Support: 1-3% tax credits for research expenditures. 20% if done through NCSU Centennial Campus
• New Business Incubation Space: RITZ plan calls for new business incubation space in all new construction downtown.
• Job Training Within Walking Distance: The Pew report lists several career paths that do not require a four year degree. A downtown WakeTech campus will be an integral part of job training for these new green jobs.

Get Involved In The Conversation: Post your thoughts on Raleigh's "green" potential on Twitter with topic #raleighgreenjobs.