North Wake News

Governor Josh Stein has announced that Provalus, an information technology outsourcing firm, will establish a Center of Excellence in Edenton, Chowan County. This project is set to create 61 new jobs and represents an investment of $6.48 million in the area.

“Companies like Provalus that need skilled workers recognize North Carolina offers talent in great small-town locations like Edenton,” stated Governor Stein. He highlighted the state's strong workforce, public education system, business climate, and infrastructure as key factors attracting businesses to North Carolina.

Provalus is part of Optomi, LLC and was founded in 2017. The company focuses on creating technology opportunities in rural areas with veteran-heavy populations across the United States. The Edenton project involves upgrading a former Sears retail store into a Center of Excellence to address growing client demands in cybersecurity, application development, and network operations.

“This new Center of Excellence represents more than just business growth; it’s a testament to our commitment to empowering communities and unlocking potential,” said Mike Keogh, President of Provalus. He expressed confidence in the region's talent and future prospects.

Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley commented on the state's ability to connect veterans with companies like Provalus: “As a military-friendly state with a deep pool of talented veterans, it’s great to see a company proactively tap into that strength.”

The average salary for the new positions will be $46,393, slightly above Chowan County's current average wage of $46,384. A performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund amounting to $150,000 will assist Provalus' project. This fund supports local governments by attracting economic investments and job creation under specific conditions.

N.C. Representative Edward Goodwin welcomed the investment: “We welcome this new investment and the new jobs Provalus is bringing to Edenton.” N.C. Senator Norman Sanderson also emphasized North Carolina's status as a top state for business: “Once again, North Carolina proves why it’s one of the top states for business in the nation.”

The project received support from various partners including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, local educational institutions such as East Carolina University and Elizabeth City State University among others.