Building Vibrant Communities
The NC Rural Center’s mission is to develop, promote, and implement sound economic strategies to improve the quality of life of rural North Carolinians. We serve the state’s 78 rural counties, with a special focus on people with low to moderate incomes and communities with limited resources.
Hurricane Helene Response
Hurricane Helene brought unprecedented flooding and damage in North Carolina, much of it in rural communities. The Rural Center has compiled an evolving list of resources to help people in need of assistance. If you have an existing loan with Thread Capital and your business has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, please call 919-250-4314 or email us at connect@threadcap.org.
News & Stories
Learn more about what we're doing at the NC Rural Center. Catch up on our latest news, client profiles, impact stories, research and press releases.
Community Focus: Wilkes County Sees New Growth Through Collaborative Initiatives
Alumni Network, Board of Directors, Engagement, LeadershipAlways a Leader: Nonprofit Founder Builds on Skills Through Homegrown Leaders
Alumni Network, LeadershipInteractive Driver – A Rural North Carolina For Everyone
Data StoriesPrime Numbers
182 thousand rural people employed in the manufacturing sector.


170 thousand rural people are employed in the health care and social assistance field.


156 thousand rural people were employed in the retail trade industry in 2024.


123 thousand rural people were employed in the accommodation and food services industry in 2024.


95 thousand rural people were employed in the public administration industry in 2024.


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