The S-Line passenger rail project continues to move forward with new federal funding, advancing infrastructure improvements, and the completion of the Downtown Mobility Hub Concept Design Study. Learn how these milestones are positioning Wake Forest for stronger regional connectivity, economic growth, and a more vibrant downtown.

New state funding for Wake Forest's Wireless Research Center could help position North Carolina to capture billions in future defense research and development. Discover how strategic investments, public-private collaboration, and local leadership are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and innovation.

Can artificial intelligence make customer service more personal? The Cotton Company believes it can. Learn how this Wake Forest staple is using AI to answer questions, share local history, and give its team more time to do what matters most: building meaningful connections with every customer.

Rebekah Werner founded Unita Marketing to help small businesses grow through personalized service, trusted relationships, and strategic marketing. Learn how Wake Forest's entrepreneurial community, local connections, and Wake Forest Founders helped shape her business and why she's committed to helping others succeed.

Discover how Framed Eyewear is bringing a personalized approach to vision and style in Downtown Wake Forest. Meet co-owners Anne Hanekom and Angela Brinkmann and learn how their boutique is helping customers find eyewear that feels uniquely their own.

North Carolina has officially made the Capital Boulevard transformation a top transportation priority, paving the way for a limited-access expressway connecting Wake Forest to Raleigh. Learn what the fully funded project means for commuters, businesses, and the future of economic development in our community.

Meet Alejandro Morales Goncalves, founder and COO of STOA, and discover how the Wake Forest Founders program helped transform both his business and his outlook. From streamlining operations to building authentic connections, his story highlights the power of entrepreneurship rooted in community.

Wake Forest Founders celebrated another successful accelerator cohort during its Spring 2026 Pitch Competition, where local entrepreneurs showcased innovative business ideas and competed for $10,000 in prize funding. Discover how the program continues to strengthen Wake Forest's entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting founders with the mentorship, resources, and community they need to grow.

Wake Forest celebrated the reopening of Miller Park and new Dunn Creek Greenway connections with ribbon-cutting ceremonies highlighting expanded recreation, walkability, and community connectivity throughout town.

Wake Forest Exchange is officially taking shape. Local leaders, business owners, and community partners gathered to celebrate the latest milestone for the mixed-use development, bringing new retail, flex, office, and entertainment space to Wake Forest.

From employee to owner, Pam Anastasi is leading SignCraft Solutions into its next chapter. The woman-owned Wake Forest business is celebrating 17 years of growth, community impact, and creative signage projects across the Southeast.

Downtown Wake Forest is getting a little greener. Meet The Planted Bean, a groovy new houseplant shop blending retro vibes, community connection, and beginner-friendly greenery into a colorful Downtown experience rooted in local entrepreneurship.

What started as a way to support small businesses during COVID has grown into a powerful platform for community impact. Discover how Raleigh Food Trap is driving visibility for local businesses and turning social media engagement into real-world results across Wake Forest and beyond.

From Wake Forest Founders alum to Town partner, Karen Lindquist’s journey highlights the power of local innovation and community support. Discover how Green Stream Technologies is bringing real-time flood monitoring to Wake Forest while turning entrepreneurial growth into meaningful local impact.

More than 1,500 people gathered at Joyner Park to kick off this year’s Six Sundays in Spring, continuing a beloved Wake Forest tradition. From live music to local food trucks, discover how this long-standing series brings the community together through shared experiences and connection.

Outback Steakhouse is set to join the growing lineup at Grove 98, adding another nationally recognized brand to Wake Forest’s evolving retail and dining landscape. Discover how this latest addition reflects continued momentum, job growth, and enhanced quality of life for the community.

Discover how Wake Forest STEM Saturday is inspiring the next generation through hands-on learning and real-world experiences. Hosted by the Town of Wake Forest and presented by the Wireless Research Center, this event connects students to STEM careers while helping build a strong, future-ready workforce.

Discover how new outdoor recreational investments in Wake Forest are creating opportunities for tourism, community engagement, and long-term economic growth. From a new skate park and pump track to expanded athletic facilities, these projects are designed to attract visitors and strengthen the Town’s evolving hospitality and recreation landscape.

Discover how a beloved downtown Wake Forest restaurant is returning with a fresh look and familiar spirit. Las Mas reopens with a renovated space, updated menu, and the same community connection that made it a longtime favorite.

Discover how Wake Forest is supporting women in business through connection, leadership, and community-driven opportunities. From local events to entrepreneurial success stories, these efforts highlight the growing impact of women-owned businesses on the Town’s economy and future.

The Factory Sports & Entertainment Center is entering a new chapter under local ownership, with plans for long-term reinvestment and enhanced community programming. Learn how this transition strengthens a cornerstone Wake Forest destination while supporting economic vitality and creating new opportunities for residents and businesses.

The Wake Forest Film Festival returns March 6 and 7, bringing global stories, creative connections, and cultural enrichment to the Renaissance Centre. Learn how this growing event strengthens Wake Forest’s arts scene, supports local businesses, and enhances the community’s quality of life.

SweatHouz (SWTHZ) has opened at Grove 98, introducing private contrast therapy suites designed to help residents unwind, recover, and recharge. Discover how this wellness-focused business is contributing to Wake Forest’s growing lifestyle scene and strengthening Grove 98 as a destination for health and everyday living.

The Town of Wake Forest is developing a comprehensive Sustainability Plan and inviting local businesses to take part. Through public input, data analysis, and long-term planning, the initiative aims to support environmental resilience, quality of life, and economic stability—while reinforcing Wake Forest’s reputation for proactive, future-focused leadership.

More than 200 leaders gathered for Wake Forest’s 6th Annual Economic Development Forum to explore what’s next for a town growing with intention. From population milestones and catalytic development projects to arts, entrepreneurship, and regional momentum, this year’s Forum offered a clear look at how Wake Forest is shaping its future—together.

Wake Forest continues to embrace innovation through the growing Battle in the Forest Esports Gaming Tournament. Hosted by Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs and presented by Brightspeed Fiber, the event highlights esports as a pathway for youth engagement, technology careers, and community-building—while reinforcing Wake Forest’s role as a hub for emerging industries.

Each year, the 2026 Wake Forest Community Profile delivers a clear, data-driven snapshot of how the town is growing and evolving. From population trends and workforce strength to income levels and development momentum, this year’s Profile highlights why Wake Forest continues to stand out as one of North Carolina’s most dynamic communities.

More than 125 community members gathered at The Loading Dock as local entrepreneurs pitched bold ideas at the Fall 2025 Wake Forest Founders Pitch Competition. From innovative start-ups to mission-driven nonprofits, the event showcased how mentorship, collaboration, and community investment are fueling business growth and impact across Wake Forest.

Wake Forest is planning a new skate park and pump track adjacent to Joyner Park, expanding outdoor recreation and wellness opportunities for the community. Designed with public input and built to accommodate all skill levels, the project will support quality of life, community connection, and future events as the town continues to grow.

Wake Forest Founders is starting the new year with a refreshed brand and website that reflect the program’s growth and future direction. Designed for clarity, connection, and momentum, the new digital experience brings founders, partners, and resources together in one cohesive ecosystem built to support entrepreneurs at every stage.