May 2026 Raleigh Durham | Local & Business Impact of NC Children’s Hospital

Local & Business Impact of NC Children’s Hospital UNC Health and Duke Health are partnering to build “NC Children’s,” a new $3+ billion freestanding, 500+ bed pediatric hospital in Apex, NC, expected to break ground in 2027. The project brings together leading healthcare systems, philanthropic support, including $25 million from Coca-Cola Consolidated, and community partners to create a world-class destination for pediatric care, research, and innovation. With life sciences serving as the backbone of the Triangle, how will this investment shape our region? What is the vision and structure of NC Children’s? What are the Foundation’s goals? How will the project come together financially? What will be the impact on our workforce? And most importantly, what will this mean for children and families across North Carolina and beyond? Join us as the leaders bringing this vision to life, and share an inside perspective on the future growth of pediatric healthcare in our region. Moderated by Emily Ziegler, Executive Advisor at UNC Health Rex Morgan Abbott – President, North Carolina Children’s Foundation Ian Buchanan – Chief Project Officer, NC Children’s Pat Nelli – President & CEO, Children’s Flight of Hope Emily Atkinson Ziegler – Executive Advisor, UNC Health Rex