Governor Pat McCrory and N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced today that Novozymes will expand its North Carolina presence by adding a new bioagriculture research and development facility in Wake County. The company plans to create 100 new jobs and invest more than $36 million over the next three years in Cary. Anna Lea Moore served as the developer on the project for the N.C. Department of Commerce.
“The research and development jobs Novozymes will create will further strengthen our hi-tech hub and be an example of the strong talent pool and attractive quality of life that characterizes Wake County, the Research Triangle and the state,” said Governor McCrory.
The planned facility will specifically support Novozymes bioagriculture business. Scientists at the new site will research and develop beneficial microorganisms found in the soil. The resulting technology will focus on improved yield, fertility and pest control for growers around the world.
“With one of the fastest growing economies in our state, Cary and Wake County are leading the way in the Carolina Comeback,” said Secretary Decker. “Cutting edge research and development in the biotechnology field will attract even more of the best and brightest minds to North Carolina.”
“This is a new day in agriculture. Our growing world population and changing diets demand more crops from our arable land with less inputs. By substantially boosting our research and commercialization of environmentally-friendly microbial technology, we will help farmers meet this demand in a sustainable way for the benefit of agriculture, consumers, the environment and society at large,” said Adam Monroe, president, Americas for Novozymes. “We thank the state of North Carolina and our various partners for their support as we work to grow this important part of our business. We look forward to our expanded presence in North Carolina and continuing the great relationships we have in this state.”
Other partners that helped with this project include: N.C. Community Colleges, North Carolina Biotechnology Center, Cary Economic Development, the Town of Cary, Capital Area Workforce Development Board, Wake County Economic Development, Franklin County Economic Development Commission, Franklin County, Wake Technical Community College, UNC-Chapel Hill, and N.C. State University.