Apple Inc. announced on Monday its plans to open a new $2 billion campus in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, a strategic move aimed at bolstering its efforts in artificial intelligence research and advanced semiconductor development. The facility, set to break ground later this year, will serve as a major East Coast hub for Apple’s growing hardware technologies and AI divisions.
The tech giant stated that the campus will create more than 3,000 high-paying jobs in machine learning, software engineering, and silicon chip design. This is part of Apple’s ongoing effort to decentralize its operations from California and tap into the rising tech talent along the Eastern Seaboard.
“This new campus represents a long-term commitment to innovation, sustainability, and job creation in the Carolinas,” said Apple COO Jeff Williams, who grew up in North Carolina. “We’re excited to deepen our presence in a region that’s become a vibrant tech corridor.”
Apple has pledged to invest more than $100 million into local infrastructure, public schools, and affordable housing initiatives to support the surrounding communities. The company also plans to power the entire campus with 100% renewable energy, in line with its environmental goals.
The announcement comes as Apple doubles down on AI development amid intense competition from Microsoft, Google, and OpenAI. With its custom silicon chips playing a larger role in iPhones, Macs, and future AR/VR devices, Apple aims to bring more of its chip research and design in-house, reducing its reliance on overseas suppliers.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper praised the move, calling it “a transformative investment that will strengthen the state’s position as a national tech leader.” The state offered Apple a performance-based incentive package totaling up to $845 million over 39 years, contingent on the company meeting job creation and investment goals.
The new campus is expected to begin operations in 2026, with hiring ramping up throughout 2025.