Governor Josh Stein visited Clyde to discuss the impact of the Small Business Infrastructure Grant program. During his visit, he met with local small business owners and emphasized their significance to the local economy.
“Western North Carolina is open for business, and I am grateful to see exciting new development activity in downtowns across the region,” stated Governor Stein. He added that “the Department of Commerce has awarded Clyde a Small Business Infrastructure Grant to enhance its sidewalks, curb appeal, and downtown parking. This investment will strengthen local commerce and allow more people to rediscover what makes western North Carolina unforgettable.”
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley commented on the project’s benefits: “This recovery project for the Town of Clyde will repair the sidewalk so folks can more easily walk in the downtown business district.” He noted that increased foot traffic would aid in economic recovery as both residents and visitors return to Clyde.
The grant provided $737,477 for Clyde’s Downtown Commercial Business District Repair Project. The Small Business Infrastructure grant program was launched by Governor Stein and the North Carolina Department of Commerce in March. It offers up to $1 million for rebuilding public infrastructure impacting small businesses. The initiative is funded through state allocations from the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 Part 1.
Governor Stein also promoted a new tourism campaign called “Rediscover the Unforgettable” alongside VisitNC. The initiative aims to attract visitors during summer by collaborating with local chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and small businesses.
