North Carolina officials have just announced that the Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved 13 grants totaling $9.6 million to support local economic development. These grants are expected to create 785 jobs and attract over $165.9 million in public and private investment.
The funding, managed by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, supports infrastructure improvements, building renovations, expansions, and site development. Three grants under the Building Reuse Program will help repurpose vacant buildings in Edenton, Chadbourn, and Whiteville for IT outsourcing and fencing supply operations, creating a combined 212 jobs.
“Our economic competitiveness is greatest when all of North Carolina benefits,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley in a press release. “This funding will help rural communities be more resilient and better prepared as they compete for economic development opportunities.”
A $750,000 Community Development Block Grant will assist Mocksville in upfitting a facility for SBA Home, a Lithuanian furniture supplier, creating 250 jobs.
Five grants under the Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account will enhance infrastructure in Aurora, Claremont, Hoke County, Lenoir County, and Lumberton, supporting job creation in manufacturing, logistics, and military aircraft maintenance.
Four grants under the Rural Downtown Economic Development program will aid revitalization efforts in Troy, Goldsboro, Watauga County, and Wilson, improving public infrastructure, preserving historic sites, and enhancing public library resources.
The RIA, composed of 17 appointed members, reviews and approves funding requests and sets policies for North Carolina’s rural economic development initiatives.
