Western North Carolina is set to see a significant boost in infrastructure development as Governor Josh Stein announces the allocation of nearly $8.5 million in grants aimed at aiding small business recovery. This initiative is part of the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ), which continues to support communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Infrastructure Investment for Economic Stability
Governor Stein emphasized the importance of infrastructure in small business operations, stating, “Small businesses can’t operate without reliable infrastructure. These investments will help communities repair essential systems, reduce future risk, and ensure local entrepreneurs have the dependable services they need to serve customers and grow.” This funding is intended to restore and enhance essential public systems, including water and sewer lines, stormwater controls, and streetscape repairs, crucial for the thriving of commercial districts.
Since November 2025, the SmBIZ program has injected nearly $30 million into the recovery efforts in the region, demonstrating a strong commitment to rebuilding and economic revitalization. Funded by a $55 million allocation from the North Carolina General Assembly, the program awards grants of up to $1 million to local governments, focusing on infrastructure damage in small business districts.
Collaboration and Strategic Investment
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the collaborative nature of the recovery effort, stating, “Rebuilding after a disaster requires both urgency and partnership. Through this program, we’re working hand in hand with local leaders to restore the systems that keep their economies functioning day in and day out.” By adjusting grant procedures to provide upfront funding, the Department of Commerce aims to circumvent delays from reimbursement processes, thereby accelerating community recovery.
Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Development, Reginald Speight, noted the strategic coordination with local officials to address pressing infrastructure needs. “Strategic public investment at this stage of recovery helps protect jobs, preserve downtown districts, and position communities for long-term resilience,” he said.
Funding Allocation Across Counties
The recent round of funding includes several notable allocations:
- Ashe County: Town of Lansing receives $979,759 for infrastructure in the Lansing Business District, and Town of West Jefferson is awarded over $1.3 million for sewer line rehabilitation and infrastructure improvements.
- Caldwell County: City of Lenoir is granted $500,000 for upgrades in the Steele Cotton Mill area.
- Jackson County: Towns of Dillsboro and Sylva receive $478,875 and $952,760, respectively, for stormwater management and utility infrastructure enhancements.
- Mitchell County: Town of Bakersville is allocated over $2 million for various infrastructure improvements, with another $1 million designated for the Town of Spruce Pine.
As the SmBIZ program continues to bolster infrastructure, local governments in eligible counties are encouraged to apply for remaining funds. Detailed information about the program and application procedures can be found at commerce.nc.gov/SmBIZ.
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