Why North Carolina
North Carolina is one of the most strategically important states in the country — both in terms of current infrastructure and future growth. As the state experiences an accelerated transformation in energy, logistics, digital infrastructure, and environmental resilience, the need for dependable, local service businesses has never been more urgent.
At Legacy, we are focused on building long-term partnerships with essential, non-discretionary service businesses — the companies that keep the state operating every day. These businesses aren’t optional; they’re foundational. They are responsible for maintaining the roads, cooling the data centers, repairing environmental damage, powering grid systems, and supporting the institutions that drive the economy. As North Carolina continues to invest heavily in physical infrastructure, clean energy, and regional supply chains, these businesses will be poised to capitalize on the transformational shifts shaping the state’s future.
Our Team on the Ground
Our work in North Carolina is led by two operators with deep local roots and industry experience: Zach Smith in Raleigh and Austin Belcher in Charlotte.
Zach Smith is a Raleigh resident and a dedicated member of the small business community, bringing extensive experience in energy, data analytics, and critical infrastructure. With over 14 years of executive experience in business development and strategic leadership, Zach has held key roles at FirstEnergy, SymphonyAI, and IRI. His career has been defined by helping businesses leverage data to improve operational efficiency, optimize supply chains, and support large-scale infrastructure projects. Zach’s understanding of grid modernization and essential utility services makes him a valuable partner to the kinds of businesses that keep North Carolina’s infrastructure running.
In Charlotte, Austin Belcher brings a heritage of entrepreneurship and logistics to Legacy’s local team. Originally from Ohio, Austin grew up around small businesses and has firsthand experience navigating the challenges business owners face. After moving to Charlotte, he spent three years in supply chain and logistics, including at Spot, a leading third-party logistics provider. There, he helped optimize freight delivery systems and supported transportation strategies for companies across the region. His combined experience in logistics and entrepreneurship gives him the tools to identify and support essential businesses with the potential to scale.
The Industries We’re Excited About
North Carolina is undergoing massive investment in transportation infrastructure, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and data center development. This shift creates sustained demand for small businesses in highly specialized, non-discretionary verticals — many of which are family-owned and operate with limited resources despite their importance.
We are particularly excited about partnering with businesses that provide:
Restoration, remediation, and sustainable infrastructure solutions
Transportation maintenance and logistics support services
Grid modernization and renewable energy field operationsSmart water infrastructure, fluid systems, and leak detection
Hydronic cooling and pump systems (for circulation, redundancy, flow control)
Chiller and thermal management services (CDUs, energy optimization)
Mechanical plumbing and pipefitting for commercial and industrial clients
Environmental monitoring, humidity control, and data center facility services
These businesses support the systems that North Carolina depends on — from universities and hospitals to military bases, logistics hubs, and research corridors. We believe they deserve long-term support, professionalization, and the capital to grow sustainably.
Our Goal in North Carolina
We are building a local portfolio of essential businesses that are critical to North Carolina’s economy and long-term growth. We are excited to partner with essential service businesses that support the state’s critical infrastructure, ensuring they remain locally owned and positioned for long-term success.
With teams stationed in both Raleigh and Charlotte, we focus on businesses that provide specialized services to North Carolina’s rapidly growing network of data centers, military bases, research institutions, fulfillment hubs, and universities. These industries are the backbone of the state’s economy, and we are committed to helping business owners scale, transition, and thrive while preserving their legacy.
North Carolina's small business environment presents a compelling opportunity for expansion. The state is home to over one million small businesses, making up 99% of all businesses and employing 1.8 million people statewide. As federal and private investment continues to reshape the state’s infrastructure, the need for reliable, skilled operators will only grow.
Legacy is here to help build that future — alongside the business owners who’ve already laid the foundation.