Steeped in history and rich in opportunities for traditional and emerging industries, our county is home to some of the world’s most prominent corporate names. International Paper, Coca-Cola, Sumitomo and Progress Energy are among those with significant operations here. They and others enjoy Columbus County’s strategic location, multi-modal accessibility, ready-to-go industrial sites, diligent and trainable workforce, and competitive business incentives. Those assets and others are set against a unique livability that includes outdoor recreation, rich cultural life and New South charm.
Situated at the halfway point between Canada and Key West, Columbus County offers strategic access to Eastern U.S. consumers, suppliers and business partners. Less than an hour east is the Port of Wilmington, which recently completed a $292 million series of channel and wharf upgrades. The Port of Charleston, SC, now among America’s busiest terminals, is a short drive south. I-95, I-40 and a web of four lane highways offer convenient surface transit, and Columbus County has been earmarked for two additional Interstate corridors: I-74 and I-20. A CSX mainline and two shortline rail-links also traverse the county. Passenger air service is available at commercial airports in nearby Wilmington (ILM) and Fayetteville (FAY), as well as at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), just 2.5 hours away.
Columbus County’s forward-looking business leaders have provided numerous high-quality, affordable industrial properties. Industrial parks in Tabor City and Whiteville have each met an exhaustive checklist of environmental, infrastructural and other requirements pursuant to North Carolina’s Certified Site program. Southeastern Community College serves residents and businesses in the county with college-transfer curricula, vocational degrees, non-credit courses and free, custom-tailored workforce programs. Nearby, the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, Fayetteville State University and Coastal Carolina University offer undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as a host of business and industrial outreach services.
With its moderate tax rates, inexpensive real estate and low construction costs, Columbus County is among the most cost-effective business destinations in the nation. Arriving and expanding industries in Columbus County can also access a menu of statutory and discretionary incentives from local, regional and state agencies, as well utility allies. These benefits include tax rebates, job creation grants, site development assistance, free training and management relocation support.
Complementing Columbus County’s hard business assets is a quality of life that appeals to natives and newcomers alike, and those at all stages of life and career. Public schools are meeting stringent new state and federal accountability requirements; numerous private academies are also available. A network of community and regional medical centers provides high-quality primary and specialty care, as well as out-patient, rehabilitation and homecare services. Nearby coastlines feature miles of glistening beaches, and golf enthusiasts can choose from dozens of PGA-quality courses amid stunning moss-draped backdrops. Nightlife options range from downtown Wilmington, with its artsy bistros and edgy nightclubs, to Myrtle Beach and its hard-charging country music scene. Historic attractions, NCAA sports, NASCAR races and more are never far away.
Contact the Columbus County Economic Development Commission to learn more about the unique corner of North Carolina – and how your company can be part of it.