As the calendar turns to 2026, companies are poised to continue making large-scale investments across the United States in response to tariff uncertainty and business conditions. Whether it’s advanced manufacturing for semiconductors or electric vehicles, large-scale data centers, or the addition of an assembly line at a locally owned factory, these investments share something in common: a story to tell, and a community to share it with.
The American public has become increasingly wary of these types of investments in their own communities, with not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) movements popping up left and right. In 2026, it is more important than ever for expanding companies to understand the communities they plan to invest in, engage with decision-makers and stakeholders, and begin telling their story to the general public long before they break ground on a major project.
By leveraging a proactive strategy for community engagement and public relations, you can position yourself as an important part of the community you are committing your business to for the long haul.
After communicating with all the right people and sharing your story – in the press, on social media, newsletters or through the grapevine – you’ll be much more likely to find yourself on the right side of potentially thorny issues like zoning decisions, tax incentives, and infrastructure investments. When you embrace the community you’re investing in, it embraces you back and helps drive your success.
Whether you’ve been in the community for years or you’re gearing up to make your first investment in the United States, NP Strategy is your trusted partner for stakeholder and community engagement and proactive public relations, helping to position your business for success long before your products start rolling off the line.
Get in touch today to stay ahead of the game in what is sure to be a banner year for economic development.
