North Carolina’s rural communities will receive an economic boost following Governor Josh Stein’s announcement. The Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved 15 grants for local governments, expected to create over 700 jobs and attract more than $104 million in private investment. The initiative aims to improve economic opportunities and quality of life in these areas.
In a press release, Governor Stein announced that the grants total $5,042,113 and are expected to create 702 jobs, 386 of which are already underway. The North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Rural Economic Development Division, led by Assistant Secretary Reginald Speight, will support the projects with infrastructure improvements such as building renovations and site upgrades. N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley said these rural grant programs are important for the state’s economic growth.
The grants cover a variety of projects across different sectors. In Bladen County, $220,000 will go to VectorTex USA, LTD for a vacant building project, creating 29 jobs and attracting $236,400 in private investment. Ashe County will receive support for a $52.9 million GE Aerospace expansion in an existing business building, adding 44 jobs. In Rowan County, a $500,000 grant will help build a new headquarters for the behavioral health company Complete Well-Care Source, expected to create 125 jobs and attract over $14 million in private investment.
The RIA also approved two grants through the Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account to support infrastructure projects such as water, sewer, and utility upgrades in towns like West Jefferson and Bladenboro. The IDF – Utility Account funds public infrastructure projects in economically challenged counties to help create jobs.
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