More than $7 million in economic development grants benefiting 15 North Carolina counties have been awarded by the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC). The grants will support job creation and retention, investments in critical infrastructure that fuel economic growth and strengthened workforce development pipelines through targeted training and education.
Funds are awarded under the FY2025 State Economic and Infrastructure Development (SEID) program, which supports projects aligned with priorities in SCRC’s authorizing statute, its Five-Year Strategic Plan and North Carolina’s SCRC Economic and Infrastructure Development Plan.
“These investments help communities tackle the challenges that hold back growth and opportunity,” said N.C. Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley in a press release. “From strengthening essential infrastructure to expanding workforce training, each project reflects what local leaders tell us they need most. We’re proud to support this work and help position these communities for long-term success.”
SCRC projects awarded within GFBJ’s coverage area include:
North Carolina projects received $7.2 million in SEID funding, with the 15 grants overwhelmingly serving SCRC-designated distressed counties.
This is the first year of the Veteran Business Expo, and it grew out of Fayetteville PWC’s Economic Impact Program, which focuses on expanding access and opportunity in public-sector contracting while strengthening the local economy. It builds off th
Lynlene Apiary and Crafts is owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Carolyn Kleinert and Jolene Kleinert. They are certified apiarists and sell honey, candles made with beeswax, soaps and other crafts at local farmers markets. Photos by GFBJ.Lynle
Big T’s has been a local favorite of Hope Mills since 2000 when Timmy (Big T) and Donna Gray first opened right on Hope Mills Lake. It is a seasonal restaurant, so many of Big T’s loyal customers were happy to hear they would now be open year-round, seven days a week.
