Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is preparing to open its newest location in Wake Forest’s Grove 98 development by the end of September 2026. Known for its scratch kitchen, wood-fired steaks and seafood, craft cocktails, and signature hospitality, Firebirds will bring a newly designed restaurant concept to Wake Forest as the growing brand continues its national expansion.

Wake Forest entrepreneur Alex Perez is bringing decades of toy and game design experience to Preztin Games, an indie studio creating original tabletop games, 3D-printed toys, and collectible figures. Discover how Perez turned an unexpected career transition into an opportunity to bet on himself, build a business rooted in creativity and play, and find an entrepreneurial community in Wake Forest.

Bringing a hospital to Wake Forest remains a major priority for the community and its long-term economic development. WFBIP President Jason Cannon introduces a timely perspective from Rep. Mike Schietzelt on the need for greater access to acute-care services in northern Wake County, the proposed hospital campus in Wake Forest, and the role North Carolina’s Certificate of Need laws play in determining where new hospital beds and facilities can be built.

After 15 years in business, Carolina Gunrunners has made a strategic move to Wake Forest, nearly doubling its footprint to 5,000 square feet. Discover how the expanded space, strong customer base, and rapid growth of the Wake Forest community are helping the longtime retailer create new efficiencies, improve the customer experience, and position the business for its next chapter.