Governor Josh Stein announced that the North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved 21 grants for local governments, totaling nearly $9.8 million. The grants are projected to create 758 jobs, of which 489 had been previously announced, and are expected to draw more than $179 million in public and private investment.
“Investing in North Carolina’s rural communities brings more opportunity to every corner of the state,” said Governor Stein. “These recent grants create jobs, improve quality of life, and attract businesses that support rural development and help make our state stronger and more prosperous.”
The RIA, supported by the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s rural economic development team, reviews and approves funding requests from local communities. The funding comes from various grant and loan programs managed by the department’s Rural Economic Development Division, led by Assistant Secretary Reginald Speight. Grants cover activities such as infrastructure development, building renovation, expansion, demolition, and site improvements.
“Success in rural communities is essential to the success of North Carolina’s economy,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “These investments in infrastructure help the state’s rural communities expand their capacity, leading to innovation and growth.”
Twelve grants were approved under the state’s Building Reuse Program, supporting the renovation or expansion of vacant buildings, existing business buildings, and rural health facilities in several counties. For example, a $500,000 grant in Graham County will support the reuse of a large building for Eco King Solutions, LLC, expected to create 515 jobs with an $80.5 million investment, while a $150,000 grant in Lenoir County will help Cardon Rehabilitation & Medical Equipment, Inc. establish its U.S. operations.
The RIA also approved five grants under the Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account program. These grants will support infrastructure projects such as sewer line construction, road access, and industrial park development in counties classified as economically distressed, aiming to create new jobs and foster business growth.
Additionally, four grants were approved under the Rural Downtown Economic Development program, which supports downtown revitalization through building renovations and public infrastructure improvements. Projects include renovating event centers, upgrading streetscapes, and improving accessibility in towns such as Wadesboro and Marshville.
The RIA not only reviews funding requests but also sets policies for grant and loan programs managed by the Commerce Department’s Rural Economic Development team. The authority comprises 17 voting members appointed by state leaders, with the Secretary of Commerce serving as an ex officio member.
For further information about these initiatives, details are available on the Rural Economic Development Division webpage.
