North Carolinians value our countryside. Even in our biggest cities, we still remember our roots. Nevertheless, we are struggling to support rural economies after the collapse of our manufacturing base. Graig believes that the best opportunities for job creation and economic development in rural areas are through expanding markets for existing small businesses and providing incentives for businesses that will invest in our small towns.
Small businesses have found a home in the country, taking advantage of technology and transportation resources that allow them to move products to worldwide markets. These individual endeavors have developed a people-driven, community-oriented movement creating local jobs and helping small towns.
This type of economy depends on highly motivated and innovative individuals. People who have knowledge and skills that are fostered by investments in the public libraries, schools and universities. Graig knows that our state needs to maintain its commitment to supporting farms and businesses that are owned and operated by hard-working North Carolinians dedicated to making their communities better.