The Wilkes Economic Development Corporation recently held the 6th annual Entrepreneurial Grant Competition. Applications were received from 20 businesses in Wilkes County in several categories including food service, recreation, construction, IT, and retail business, to name a few. Applicants were grouped as either a new or existing business. Business plans were judged with the emphasis being on sustainability and funding impact to the business. Grant amounts totaling $12,500 were distributed this year between five companies. Read More...
Winners: Mr. Toro Bakery and Taqueria, Handy Hands Home Remodel and Repair Service, Moonshine Leatherworks, April Flowers and Key City Antique Mall.
Wilkes EDC coordinated and sponsored an expo on June 7th in conjunction with Wilkes County Schools at the Stone Center for career coaches, counselors, teachers and school leadership. Attendance topped 110, with 60 educators and 50+ business leaders.
Businesses displayed the products they manufacture or services they provide, tools they utilize, types of positions, as well as the skills needed for employment. This was a combination of an expo, consisting of booth areas, table top centerpieces and guest speakers representing various industry clusters. The event focused on manufacturing, service and skilled trades. It was not a job fair, but rather an opportunity to showcase products, services, and opportunities.
Educators were encouraged to integrate what they learned into their lessons, while also mentoring students to consider all of the types of careers available in Wilkes County.
Wilkes EDC held a meeting with area human resources professionals in May to discuss workforce development opportunities in Wilkes. The meeting was held at Tyson Foods. The HR Committee will meet quarterly. To get involved, contact the Wilkes EDC.
A Groundbreaking Ceremony was held on May 17th to announce the addition of a threestory, 47,000 sq. ft. office complex on Hwy 268 in North Wilkesboro that will house an additional 160 employees in Wilkes. Read more in the Wilkes-Journal Patriot.
The National Main Street Center has designated 46 North Carolina communities as accredited Main Street America™ programs for 2019...read more.