Target Industries
Over the past 15-plus years, Caldwell County has transformed from a single-engine economy to a diverse 21st-century economy that is regionally and globally competitive.
The Great Recession significantly impacted Caldwell County in 2008. Most of our economy relied on furniture manufacturing, and when the housing market collapsed, so did the need for furniture. Since then, Caldwell has persistently and systematically rebuilt its economy, adding more than 50 industries and repurposing and selling more than 4.2 million square feet of industrial space. Furniture, plastics and packaging and food processing and distribution are joined by data centers, pharmaceuticals and other advanced manufacturers. Unemployment went from an all-time high of 17.5 percent to 3 percent.
Caldwell's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has realized 30 percent growth since the Great Recession, building particularly steep momentum after 2014. Caldwell emerged from the pandemic the only Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton MSA county whose GDP did not decline in 2020.
Contact CCED today to see how we can help your company grow in Caldwell County. Customized job training is available for qualifying businesses through Caldwell Community College & Technology Institute (CCC&TI) and others.
CaldWELL DIVERSIFIED
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.
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.
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.
The Blue Ridge foothills, Pisgah National Forest and Wilson Creek are our playgrounds for biking, off-roading, watersports, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping.
Whether we’re celebrating art, butterflies, blackberries, BBQ or wine, the calendar is full of Southern charm.
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.
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%.
Move right into one of our existing manufacturing buildings. The infrastructure is in place and a trained workforce is ready.
CCED works closely with CCC&TI and local manufacturers to meet the workforce needs of employers.
Life in Caldwell County can be full of adventure. Spend the day exploring parks, mountains, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and biking.