Caldwell County Economic Development supports business growth, expansion, and investment throughout Caldwell County, North Carolina. From assisting existing employers to recruiting new industries, the organization works closely with public and private partners to create a competitive, business-friendly environment and long-term economic opportunity.
Target industries include advanced manufacturing, furniture and wood products, biopharmaceuticals, data centers, and other growth-oriented sectors that align with the county’s workforce skills, infrastructure, and available sites.
Expanding companies can receive support with site and building options, infrastructure coordination, workforce recruitment and training programs, and guidance on available local and state incentives designed to encourage job creation and capital investment.
Yes. Caldwell County has a variety of industrial buildings, shovel-ready sites, and industrial parks to match businesses of all sizes and operational needs, including options with rail access and modern utility infrastructure.
Caldwell County Economic Development collaborates with educational institutions and workforce partners to help employers recruit qualified talent and access customized training programs that support both new hires and existing employees.
The organization works closely with local employers to support expansion, modernization, and long-term success. This includes helping companies identify workforce training programs, access funding and incentive opportunities, navigate permitting processes, and connect with key partners.
Caldwell County has seen investment from existing employers, new business announcements, and industrial park development, all of which have led to continued job creation and capital investment. These successes reflect long-term planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to supporting industries that align with the county’s workforce and infrastructure strengths. Read CCED’s track record of success here.
Caldwell County offers a strategic location in western North Carolina with access to major transportation corridors, a skilled and dependable workforce, and a cost-competitive business environment.
Data centers rely on optimal geographic location, existing utility assets, growing broadband networks, and partnerships with regional energy and connectivity providers. Caldwell County offers reliable electric, water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure capable of supporting advanced manufacturing and data-intensive operations, including data centers.
Caldwell County offers all of these factors, helping reduce project development risk and making it an attractive location for companies seeking scalable infrastructure.
Caldwell County and its partners are exploring a range of projects, including upgrades to broadband internet access, improvements to transportation networks, enhancements to utility capacity, and site development. These initiatives are designed to support existing employers and position the county to attract future investment in advanced industries.
CCED continues to develop and promote incentive programs that help businesses access state and federal funding, local tax incentives, and infrastructure support. These initiatives are part of CCED’s broader efforts to assist companies in expanding operations, creating jobs, and investing in the Caldwell County community.
CCED has expanded industry-specific sections, allowing sectors such as Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace, Biopharmaceuticals, Data Centers, and Emerging Technologies to provide tailored wage and benefits information. This initiative enhances the relevance and usefulness of county-wide compensation data for diverse employers.
Unlike retail development, economic development typically targets manufacturing, logistics, technology, and other traded-sector industries that drive long-term economic growth and support local retail and services.
Caldwell County Economic Development is supported through partnerships with Caldwell County and participating municipalities: the City of Lenoir, Town of Cajah’s Mountain, Town of Gamewell, Town of Granite Falls, Town of Hudson, Town of Rhodhiss, Town of Sawmills, and Village of Cedar Rock.
Economic development focuses on growing and sustaining the local economy by supporting existing businesses, attracting new employers, and increasing the tax base. These efforts help create jobs, fund public services, and improve residents' overall quality of life.
Caldwell County Economic Development provides confidential, no-cost assistance to businesses, including site selection support, workforce development coordination, incentive guidance, infrastructure planning, and connections to local, regional, and state resources.
Caldwell County Economic Development is the lead organization responsible for supporting business growth and recruiting new industry to Caldwell County, North Carolina. The organization works to strengthen the local economy by assisting existing companies, attracting new investment, and promoting the county’s competitive advantages.
Businesses can stay informed by following CCED on social media or checking the “News” section on the EDC website regularly for updates on new surveys, economic reports, and regional workforce data releases
Businesses and site selectors can contact Caldwell County Economic Development by phone, email, or in person at the office in Lenoir, North Carolina. How can I contact Caldwell County Economic Development?, and staff are available to respond promptly to inquiries.
CCED works closely with CCC&TI and local manufacturers to meet the workforce needs of employers.
The Blue Ridge foothills, Pisgah National Forest and Wilson Creek are our playgrounds for biking, off-roading, watersports, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping.
Caldwell County ranked 20th out of North Carolina’s 100 counties for wage growth in 2023. Since 2015, wages have grown an impressive 51.5%.
NC has increased production of renewables by nearly 52%, double the average of all 50 states
Powered by an economy that has hit its stride and turbocharged by a track record of innovation, Caldwell County is the best of NC.
Life in Caldwell County can be full of adventure. Spend the day exploring parks, mountains, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and biking.
Whether we’re celebrating art, butterflies, blackberries, BBQ or wine, the calendar is full of Southern charm.
Record numbers of new businesses and industries have registered in Caldwell: 250-500 each year since 2018. The CCC&TI Business Center is ready to assist.
Explore scenic vistas, historical sites, art, breweries, wineries, eateries and more along this world famous route.
Move right into one of our existing manufacturing buildings. The infrastructure is in place and a trained workforce is ready.
Caldwell County has the most extensive collection of permanent public outdoor sculptures per capita in the U.S. Our annual Sculpture Celebration is the largest in the South.
Caldwell County is building on its historic manufacturing legacy while embracing the industries of tomorrow. With affordability, a strategic location, and a skilled workforce, the county is a prime destination for business growth and investment.
Explore the Caldwell County Itinerary for food, shopping, highlights, lodging and adventures! We invite locals and visitors to delight in the journey and the destination.
