Online learning firm to add 450 jobs in Cary

"We'll be expanding our product offerings to move into things like mobile applications and analytics," Chief Operating Officer Mark Belles said. "As the health care landscape continues to evolve, we look forward to providing solutions across the changing landscape."

The positions created by the $4.5 million expansion will include research and development, sales and marketing and administrative staff. Officials said the growth will boost the area economy by $39 million.

Relias has qualified for a Job Development Investment Grant of up to $5.3 million. JDIG rebates some of the employee withholding taxes to a company that meets annual hiring and investment targets over 12 years. Cary also has approved $50,000 in incentives for the company, officials said.

"We are so thrilled to receive this grant that allows us to stay home and build off the incredible presence that we have right here in Wake (County)," Belles said.

Relias moved to Cary in 2012, and most of its 365 employees are based here.

"We're excited that you're here," Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht said. "We know you could have gone anywhere in the nation and the world, but you decided to call Cary home, and we're glad for that."

Cary suffered a blow this spring when Deutsche Bank suspended a large expansion because of its opposition to House Bill 2, the controversial state law that excludes gay and transgender people from nondiscrimination protections statewide and requires transgender individuals to use public bathrooms that correspond to their birth gender.

Gov. Pat McCrory said the Relias expansion shows the state's business climate remains healthy.

"It's also very good news because it sends a signal that we can find the skilled labor and the talent needed for thriving innovative companies," McCrory said.