Food Processing

From low costs to great logistics, food processors in Caldwell County benefit from the many advantages that have made North Carolina one of America’s top food producing states.

Caldwell County Advantages

Proximity to food-related suppliers
Abundant municipal water supplies
Low power, utility and transport costs
Proximity to regional markets, numerous trucking carriers
Intermodal port facility, 73 miles away

Caldwell County Workforce Training Advantages

Customized job-training is free to qualifying businesses
North Carolina Department of Agriculture support services
Appalachian State University (ASU) Hickory
North Carolina Center for Engineering Technologies (ASU) (Hickory)
NC State University Food, Bioprocessing & Nutrition Sciences
NC State University Industry Expansion Services
NC State University Cooperative Extension Services
E3 North Carolina Initiative at NC State University
University of North Carolina-Charlotte (UNCC)

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2025 Key Indicators Report

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.

Meander the Blue Ridge Parkway and Historic Happy Valley

Explore scenic vistas, historical sites, art, breweries, wineries, eateries and more along this world famous route.

Renowned “Adventure Towns”

The Blue Ridge foothills, Pisgah National Forest and Wilson Creek are our playgrounds for biking, off-roading, watersports, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping.

Free Job Training for Qualifying Businesses

CCED works closely with CCC&TI and local manufacturers to meet the workforce needs of employers.

Record-Breaking Private Sector Wage Growth

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%.

Existing Manufacturing Space Available

Move right into one of our existing manufacturing buildings. The infrastructure is in place and a trained workforce is ready.

Entrepreneurship is Thriving

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.

Eat and Play North Carolina

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.

Our Festivals Bring Neighbors Together

Whether we’re celebrating art, butterflies, blackberries, BBQ or wine, the calendar is full of Southern charm.

Our Mountains, Rivers and Lakes are Calling

Life in Caldwell County can be full of adventure. Spend the day exploring parks, mountains, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and biking.

NC is America’s Top State for Business

NC is America’s Top State for Business (CNBC, 2022)

Powered by an economy that has hit its stride and turbocharged by a track record of innovation, Caldwell County is the best of NC.

Smithsonian Celebrated Sculpture Gardens

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 is the No.1 Southeast State for Sustainability

NC is the No.1 Southeast State for Sustainability (Site Selection)

NC has increased production of renewables by nearly 52%, double the average of all 50 states