Winston-Salem's diversified economy makes it a center of trade for a large part of North Carolina. The Triad region is one of the top 40 export-producing markets in the United States. Major private employers in Forsyth County include Novant Health, R.J.Reynolds Tobacco Co., Corning Cable Systems, Sara Lee Corporation, Siemens Westinghouse, and GMAC Insurance. But Winston-Salem is not merely home to established corporations, it's also a magnet for start-up businesses. This entrepreneurial town has nurtured over 500 new companies in the last five years.

Just as the business community has expanded, the area's labor force has also grown steadily over the years. New and expanding businesses have little trouble meeting their staffing needs due to the availability of experienced managers, computer professionals, secretaries, machine operators, assemblers, mechanics, and general laborers.

In addition to building a strong corporate environment and a versatile labor force, Winston-Salem is working to transform its economy from one rooted in manufacturing to one based on technology. Winston-Salem is emerging as a leading center for health care, research, science, and advanced manufacturing. And local venture capital funds have been established to invest in promising technology companies.