News

Google announced a new, $1 billion investment within the next two years in North Carolina to grow its data center infrastructure in Lenoir, among other commitments to the state. Google has proudly called North Carolina home for more than 15 years with a data center in Lenoir and an office...

The 2026 Wage and Benefit Survey from Caldwell County Economic Development shows how local employers compete for talent, highlights hiring challenges, outlines the benefits offered, and shares expectations for employment changes in the coming year. The survey covers manufacturers, government, logistics, construction, utilities, and professional services, offering a broad look...

Governor Josh Stein announced that North Carolina’s Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved 11 grant requests for local governments totaling $4,933,520. The grants include commitments to create a total of 673 jobs, 331 of which were previously announced. As a result of these grants, the additional private investment in these...

The Golden LEAF Board of Directors awarded a total of $16.7 million in funding to support job creation and economic investment, workforce preparedness, and agriculture projects. The Golden LEAF Board awarded $1.7 million to support four projects through the Open Grants Program, $3 million to support two projects in the...

Teachers influence how students think about their futures long before graduation. The conversations that happen in classrooms often shape decisions about college, training, employment, and career goals. The Workforce Wednesdays program in Caldwell County was designed with that responsibility in mind.For the 3rd year, through a partnership between Caldwell County...

Many life science companies consider the Research Triangle when expanding in North Carolina. However, Western North Carolina is also gaining momentum. Caldwell County, in particular, is seeing steady growth in biopharmaceutical, medical, and research operations. Employers here point to available talent, lower costs, and space to grow as key advantages...

Economic Development Week, held from May 4-8, 2026, arrives during a milestone year for the profession. The International Economic Development Council marks 100 years of work that has shaped local economies across the country. The theme, 100 Years of Impact, sets a direct expectation. Communities should assess results, report current...

“This grant is more than an investment in jobs — it’s an investment in our people,” said Commission Chairman Randy Church. “Retaining over 150 full-time positions means families can continue to thrive right here in our community. We’re proud to support Bakers Waste Equipment and the other businesses that keep...

Help define current compensation and benefit trends in Caldwell County by participating in the 2026 Caldwell County Wage and Benefit Survey today!The survey is open and will be available through March 27, 2026.Caldwell County Economic Development is conducting this survey to reflect the current realities of a broad range of...

Part Two of a two-part series on workforce development at CCC&TI. Part One explored the college’s BioWork program and its role in preparing residents for biomanufacturing and life sciences careers.Beyond preparing workers for high-tech and high-demand industries, Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI) also plays a vital role in...

Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI) is preparing Caldwell County’s workforce for the high-demand careers of tomorrow, offering training programs that directly support emerging industries across North Carolina. As one of Caldwell County Economic Development’s key partners, CCC&TI helps ensure that local talent is aligned with employer needs in...

Caldwell County Economic Development invites you to the next Caldwell Tech Talk, a monthly meetup focused on growing our region's tech ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a new entrepreneur, or a student passionate about innovation, this event is an opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate.When is the next Tech...

Economic development is always centered on business growth and innovation. In Caldwell County, NC, however, it’s about building a better future for the community. Supporting entrepreneurs, expanding local industries, and attracting new opportunities all focus on ensuring a prosperous future for residents and businesses. Every new job, every new storefront,...