The Future of Business and Development in Caldwell County
The future of business and development in Caldwell County is one that will be interesting to keep an eye on. From the economic trends that are occurring in the area to the projects that are being developed and planned, it’s not hard to see how the region is shaping up. You’ll also be able to learn about the benefits and opportunities that the area has to offer small businesses.
Economic trends and business climate in Caldwell County
If you’re looking for a new home or relocating your business to a new locale, you’ll be pleased to know that Caldwell County is full of exciting and affluent neighborhoods that can provide you with everything from fine dining to a quality home. In fact, the county is arguably the most densely populated in North Carolina.
Although it’s no Las Vegas, the county is a short hop from Hickory to Statesville and a quick jaunt from Raleigh to Boone. It’s also not too far from the NC State University and San Marcos Regional Airport. As a result, the area is prime real estate for many of the country’s leading companies, and is ripe for some serious growth. The county is already home to Gary Job Corps, a well-regarded vocational school, and Dailey Electric, a reputable electrical contracting firm.
While it’s true that most of the top jobs in the region are concentrated in the Raleigh-Cary metroplex, Caldwell County is well-positioned to catch up in a hurry. Indeed, the county is home to a handful of notable employers, including VFT Technologies and Fashion Glass & Mirror, and is a shoo-in for its proximity to the Triangle-area economy. For those who have the time and inclination, the area is also a good place to raise a family, as the local schools are some of the best in the state.
Key industries driving growth in Caldwell County
Caldwell County, North Carolina, is a small county at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is home to eight incorporated communities. Despite the area’s small size, the county boasts a booming economy.
Traditionally a manufacturing region, the county’s employment has recently increased. A study found that the county’s manufacturing sector has grown 4.7 percent in the last year. The top manufacturers include aluminum extrusion, precious metal reclamation, and custom metal fabrication.
There are also several large firms that have moved into the county in recent years. Dailey Electric, VFT Technologies, Fashion Glass & Mirror, and Bernhardt Furniture are among the largest employers.
With a mild climate, residents enjoy four seasons. However, the county faces challenges in the retail business. In 2010, the county’s unemployment rate topped 17 percent. During the past two years, the unemployment rate has decreased to 3.7 percent.
Although the county lost ten thousand jobs over a decade, a rebuilding process has begun. This includes dual enrollment through the Career and College Promise program and adult workforce training.
There are 13 career tracks in the county, including accounting, food service, and agriculture. Some of the local industries are the same as those in the larger communities, while others have become more important.
The county’s tourism industry is also a growing one. The area is host to the Luling Watermelon Thump event, a world-renowned watermelon festival.
Opportunities for small businesses in Caldwell Cou
Caldwell County has a wide array of programs and opportunities for small businesses. These include the Economic Development Incentive Program, which provides financial incentives based on property taxes for up to five years. This program is designed to encourage new industry to locate in Caldwell County.
The Small Business Technology Funding Program is another incentive available to small business owners in Caldwell County. This program offers joint venture opportunities with premier nonprofit research institutions. It also provides funding for innovation in the federal research arena.
In addition to these opportunities, the City of Caldwell and the Small Business Center Network offer a variety of programs and services to support businesses in the community. They provide information, training and employment assistance to job seekers and businesses.
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute offers industrial and technical training programs. Their Startup Caldwell-Watauga program helps entrepreneurs connect to free resources and tools.
RHA Health Services, located in Caldwell County, serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and substance use challenges. The organization provides programs such as Payactiv which allows employees to access earned wages before payday.
United Way of Caldwell County works to improve the lives of families and individuals. They help to build a stronger community through a focus on local resources. By leveraging donations, the organization works to support 18 local agencies.
The Caldwell County Appraisal District appraises real estate in a uniform and professional manner. All property within the district’s boundaries is appraised in accordance with the Texas Property Tax Code and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices.
Upcoming business developments and projects in Calwell County
The city of Caldwell, Idaho is home to one of the best downtown areas in the state. It is packed with shops, restaurants and an excellent movie theater. This is a great place for families, young adults and professionals alike.
There are several business developments and projects in Caldwell County that are on the horizon. One of the latest is a telehealth company from Los Angeles called IDLogiq. With a loan from the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment, IDLogiq will be able to expand operations and hire a few new employees.
Another project that is slated to make a splash in Caldwell County is a solar power plant and battery facility in Martindale. The facility will be a boon for the community and will serve as the company’s flagship operations in Texas.
Also, the city of Hickory is considering offering incentives to an up and coming frozen food producer. According to the mayor of Hickory, the upcoming plant will be a boon for the area and create a significant number of jobs.
A few of the more recent businesses to move to Caldwell include Fashion Glass & Mirror, Pure Castings and Dailey Electric. These are all local companies that will provide jobs to local residents.
The City of Caldwell is also committed to stimulating the local economy. It has a clear mission to diversify the local tax base and encourages the use of incentives only when necessary.
