North Carolina Governor Josh Stein dropped by the small town of Clyde yesterday, putting a spotlight on the state's efforts to boost local economies through the Small Business Infrastructure Grant program. In a visit that underlined a combination of public improvement projects and tourism, Stein shared some appreciation for the region's entrepreneurial spirit. "Western North Carolina is open for business, and I am grateful to see exciting new development activity in downtowns across the region," Stein mentioned during his visit, as per the Governor's Office press release.
Stein also took the opportunity to discuss the significance of these enhancements with local business owners. Sidewalk repairs, curb upgrades, and downtown parking improvements in Clyde, funded by a $737,477 grant, are seen by the governor as key to reviving the town’s economic vitality. Announced in March 2025, the Small Business Infrastructure grant program pools a considerable $55 million for such ventures, conceived under the guidance of the North Carolina Department of Commerce and backed by the state legislature. Walking in the downtown business district, repairing the sidewalk was listed by Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, so folks can engage more with local merchants.
Moreover, this summer presents a chance for North Carolina to draw visitors into its embrace with "Rediscover the Unforgettable," – a campaign encouraging tourism in western North Carolina. Governor Stein, hand in hand with VisitNC, looks to local chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and small businesses, inviting them to leverage this promotional drive. The program, discussed during the Clyde visit, aligns seamlessly with the state's broader economic recovery narrative, according to the Governor's Office.
Governor Stein visited Clyde to highlight a recent grant supporting public infrastructure improvements tied to small businesses. Clyde received funding under the state's million-dollar cap for such projects. The visit emphasized ongoing efforts to support small towns across North Carolina through similar initiatives aimed at improving local infrastructure and boosting business activity.
