What are local business executives saying about the recent Milken Ranking? Leaders from various industries shared their thoughts on its significance for their businesses and the broader community.
““Raleigh’s top ranking on Milken’s list of best performing large cities reflects the commitment that leaders in our public, private, academic, philanthropic, and non-profit sectors have made to ensure that Raleigh is a community where everyone can thrive. The Milken Institute’s ranking affirms what those of us fortunate enough to call Raleigh home have come to know – that we’re a community with an exceptional quality of life, a city rich in diverse talent, and that we’re an excellent place to start or grow a business, among many other things. For all of the incredible strides forward we’ve taken as a community in recent years, I feel certain that Raleigh’s best is yet to come.””
— Evan Raleigh, Assistant City Manager, City of Raleigh
““Once again, this is another exceptional reminder of the robust demand outlook for Raleigh, not just in relation to our state and our region but nationwide. This #1 ranking is a strong testimonial to the continued commitment to creating and maintaining thriving, connected communities in Raleigh with vibrant places where people want to live, stay, visit, work, shop, and dine. This further amplifies Raleigh’s momentum in attracting investment, innovative companies, and talented people.” ”
— Mike Smith, CEO, Kane Realty Corporation
““The strength of the Raleigh community, as highlighted by the Milken Best-Performing Cities #1 ranking, is rooted in the strength of our community institutions. From our universities, community college, and public school system, to our hospitals, Chamber of Commerce and local nonprofits, many Raleigh institutions are recognized as some of the best in the nation. Our success stems from the outstanding support we receive from the private and public sectors, with each institution in turn contributing to the fabric that makes us a top economic performer. Yet, the true “secret sauce” of our community lies in decades of collective commitment to collaboration, always working together to improve the lives of our citizens.””
— Dr. Scott Ralls, President, Wake Technical Community College
““Raleigh’s ranking as the number one best-performing large city is a testament to its thriving economy, innovative spirit, and exceptional quality of life. The recognition reinforces our city’s appeal as a hub for businesses, attracting top talent and fostering growth across industries. For the local business community, it means continued opportunities for collaboration, investment, and expansion in a market that prioritizes progress and growth. As a proud part of this amazing community, we are excited to see Raleigh’s momentum and success benefit both current and future residents and businesses.” ”
— Jennie Gardner, CRP, Vice President of Relocation, Corporate Services and eCommerce, Coldwell Banker, Howard Perry and Walston
““Raleigh has consistently been recognized as a top-performing city by the Milken Institute, but earning the #1 spot this year underscores the incredible momentum we’re experiencing. Whether you’re a business owner, a family, a student, or a professional, Raleigh is a destination of choice. Our dynamic growth, unmatched opportunities, and exceptional quality of life make it impossible to overlook. I’m proud to witness and be part of the continued success in our state’s capital.””
— Marcus Ginyard, Vice President, MEDALIST CAPITAL
““We are pleased to see Raleigh getting the national recognition it deserves as an economic center of influence and great place to live and work. As the largest bank headquartered in the Raleigh market, we’ve seen the accelerated growth of many local companies firsthand. Raleigh’s success has been our success as we’ve been fortunate to grow and prosper along with the city. We’re proud that we’ve been able to support our clients’ growth, from our individual customers to our wealth customers to our business clients and beyond. It’s a privilege to foster deep, long-lasting relationships with our Raleigh clients over decades and in turn see their success fuel our local economy to such great heights and recognition.””
— Shan Teel, Regional Executive Vice President, First Citizens Bank and Chairman, Raleigh Chamber of Commerce
““The Milken Institute recognition reflects the abundance of talent and innovation in the Raleigh metro area. For Merz Aesthetics, being a part of the thriving research triangle is pivotal to our success as an organization. Thanks to the one-of-a-kind resources and inspirational leadership in Raleigh, our purpose to fuel confidence worldwide is made possible.”
