North Carolina Advances Industrial Development with Selectsite Readiness Program
In a recent visit to Enfield, North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein highlighted the state’s efforts to prepare industrial sites for development through the Selectsite Readiness Program. This initiative is part of the broader strategy to enhance North Carolina’s appeal for advanced manufacturing companies. The state’s efforts have earned it the title of “2025 State of the Year” from Business Facilities Magazine, acknowledging its strong business climate and success in attracting investment. Governor Stein emphasized the role of the Selectsite program in supporting infrastructure development, which aids in transforming areas like Enfield into attractive locations for businesses.
The Selectsite Readiness Program, established in 2023 by the North Carolina General Assembly, is designed to prepare mid-sized industrial properties for high-impact projects. Halifax County, one of the fifteen Selectsites, has received a $3 million grant for site development. This includes a $2.35 million grant from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina and $650,000 in matching funds from the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). NCDOT’s involvement includes upgrading and paving Trestle Road to enhance access to the Selectsite property.
State officials, including N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and Representative Rodney Pierce, underscored the program’s importance in boosting economic competitiveness and attracting new business ventures to the region. The initiative is part of a larger effort by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, which has invested over $3 million in the region through various awards since Governor Stein took office in January 2025.
North Carolina Named 2025 State of the Year
Governor Stein announced that North Carolina has been recognized as the 2025 State of the Year by Business Facilities Magazine. This accolade highlights the state’s successful business climate and its ability to attract investment and create jobs across communities. Recent rankings and recognitions, including being named the 2026 Top State for Workforce Development by Site Selection Magazine, reflect North Carolina’s strong higher education, apprenticeship, and workforce programs.
In the past year, North Carolina has been ranked the Top State for Business by CNBC for the third time in four years, noted for its robust economy and business-friendly environment. Under Governor Stein’s leadership, the state has seen a record number of job announcements, with over 35,000 new positions and $24 billion in new investments in 2025. These achievements underscore North Carolina’s commitment to fostering growth and opportunity throughout the state.
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