Governor Stein highlights grants to strengthen rural North Carolina in Edenton
Governor Josh Stein and Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development Reginald Speight visited Edenton on May 12 to showcase the state’s partnership with local governments aimed at expanding economic opportunity in rural North Carolina.
The visit underscores efforts to invest in downtowns and local economies, which officials say are essential for small towns to thrive. "To ensure small town North Carolina thrives, we need to invest in downtowns and local economies," said Governor Josh Stein. "Grants from the Rural Infrastructure Authority are helping towns like Edenton repurpose aging buildings to attract new companies, strengthen utilities, and keep Main Streets buzzing."
During a walking tour of downtown Edenton, Stein visited several businesses and grant-funded projects contributing to the town’s economic activity. Stops included Provalus, an IT outsourcing firm investing $6.48 million and creating 61 jobs; Kraken Coffeehouse; Down East Preservation, a conservation and design firm; and Surf, Wind and Fire, a locally owned outdoor lifestyle store involved with the Creating Outdoor Recreation Economies initiative.
North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley said: "Rural communities are essential to North Carolina’s continued growth and success. Through strategic investments in downtown revitalization, infrastructure, workforce development, and broadband access, we are helping communities like Edenton build on their strengths, attract new opportunities, and create a stronger future for residents and businesses alike." Recently announced grants from the Rural Infrastructure Authority total more than $5.8 million across 12 projects statewide—including an $850,000 grant for lighting improvements in historic downtown Edenton—with expected public-private investment exceeding $43 million.
"Programs supported through the Rural Infrastructure Authority are making a meaningful difference in communities across our state," said Assistant Secretary Speight. "Edenton’s investments in its historic downtown and outdoor recreation economy demonstrate how rural communities can preserve their unique character while creating new pathways for economic growth, tourism, and job creation." The Office of the Governor of North Carolina serves as chief executive for the entire state by executing laws as well as leading policy initiatives such as these investments according to the official website.
Stein has also announced budget recommendations that include funding youth apprenticeship programs through NC Career Launch as well as support for broadband expansion projects that will connect thousands more homes by 2030 through federal programs. In recent years over $136 million has been awarded through state rural grant programs focused on housing revitalization and business development.