NCGrowth recently wrapped up an exciting project with Freedom Org, aimed at transforming agricultural access and economic opportunity in Edgecombe County, NC. The Freedom Org Farm Incubator & Equipment Share Program is designed to support new and underserved farmers by providing access to land, tools, and training—creating a path toward food security, economic resilience, and health equity. With 44% adult obesity, 5.2% unemployment, and rising food insecurity, Edgecombe County faces significant challenges. The region also has a majority Black and low-income population that has historically lacked access to agricultural resources and education. By creating an incubator for small farmers and a shared equipment program, Freedom Org and NCGrowth are addressing these disparities head-on. The Farm Incubator provides a 2–5 year training program where participants lease land plots, receive mentorship, and gain market access to build their farming businesses. Meanwhile, the Equipment Share Program allows farmers to rent tractors, irrigation systems, and harvesters through a leasing or membership model—ensuring that lack of capital is not a barrier to success. By Year 3, the program is expected to generate over $362,000 in revenue, breaking even in under two years. Revenue streams will come from land leasing, crop sales, livestock and poultry, and shared equipment rentals. The initiative is also forging partnerships with local schools, grocery distributors, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) networks to create long-term market opportunities. "Freedom Org’s incubator model isn’t just about farming—it’s about economic freedom, food justice, and empowering historically disinvested communities," said Dr. Darlene Deberry, Project Manager for NCGrowth. As this initiative moves forward, NCGrowth remains committed to supporting innovative solutions that drive inclusive economic development. Stay tuned for more updates on how this project will continue to grow and strengthen rural North Carolina!
As told by: Nicole Outlaw, Assistant Director of Engagement, NCGrowth
When I think about economic transformation, I think about the people and places that make it possible. On December 10, 2024, I had the opportunity to join my colleagues from NCGrowth and the Kenan Institute for an immersive experience in Danville, VA, and Caswell County, NC. Our goal was simple yet powerful: to explore opportunities for strengthening partnerships and fostering community-driven growth.
Institute for Advanced Learning and Research-Danville, VA
Danville, VA: Innovation and Industry at the Forefront
Our day began in Danville, VA, at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR). IALR was founded in 2002 to transform and grow the economy in Southern Virginia. The Institute is a hub for workforce training, research, and industry collaboration. IALR is leading initiatives in innovation, applied research, and advanced manufacturing. The Institute aims to propel economic development by serving as a site for industry specific, high-tech companies to launch.
Upon our arrival at this state-of-the-art facility, we were greeted with a warm welcome and a delicious continental breakfast. Telly Tucker, IALR’s president, shared an overview of their statewide and global impact. The mission of the Institute is to serve as a catalyst for economic transformation.
Following the presentation, Linda Green, Vice President of Economic Development, joined us on our bus to provide a guided tour of the IALR’s campus. She also traveled with us through downtown Danville’s River Arts District, where we saw firsthand how arts and culture contribute to economic revitalization. Historic buildings transformed into vibrant galleries and maker spaces, stood as a testament to the power of placemaking in community development.
Linda Green, Our Tour Guide for the Danville Stops
During our visit, we had the privilege of hearing from Clark Casteel of the Danville Regional Foundation (DRF), who spoke about the benefits of leveraging community councils. Mr. Casteel shared about the impact that community councils made in cross-state projects in Caswell County, NC. Another project that stood out was DRF’s $10 million dollar investment in the Danville Family YMCA, which led to the construction of a new facility overlooking the Dan River—the first building to face the river in over 100 years. Seeing how intentional investments can reshape a city was inspiring. The experience downtown created a buzz among our group about plans to return to Danville to explore with our families.
Downtown Danville
Our final stop in Danville was a quick look at Dan River Falls, a historic site undergoing a remarkable transformation into a mixed-use development. Once a textile manufacturing hub, it now represents a new era of economic resurgence through strategic redevelopment.
Caswell County, NC: Agriculture and Entrepreneurship
Crossing into North Carolina, we gathered at the Pelham Community Center for a catered lunch by Kountry Boi Catering, owned by O’Bryant Pettiford. Chef OB served up a soulful spread that delighted our palates while we engaged in meaningful conversations with local leaders. Among them was Selena Thornton, Founder of Diva in Dirt, an educational agricultural program that is inspiring the next generation to embrace sustainable farming.
A portfolio of photo memories and upcoming events at Pelham Community Center
Next, we visited the Piedmont Progressive Farmers’ Cooperative, where Sam Crisp shared the critical role cooperative business models play in supporting local farmers and strengthening rural communities. His passion for agricultural sustainability was evident, and it reinforced the value of investing in local food systems.
Learning about Egg Processing at Piedmont Progressive Farmers’ Cooperative
Our final stop was CoSquare in Yanceyville, a co-working and entrepreneurship space designed to support small businesses. Walking through the space, I could envision the entrepreneurial dreams being materialized here—startups finding their footing, entrepreneurs making connections, and community members coming together to create something bigger than themselves.
Looking Ahead
This immersive experience reaffirmed what I’ve always believed—economic development is about people, partnerships, and persistence. From Danville’s innovation-driven industries to Caswell County’s agricultural and entrepreneurial spirit, we saw countless opportunities for collaboration and community-led growth.
As NCGrowth continues to expand our engagement, I look forward to deepening our partnerships in these communities and supporting their visions for a more prosperous future.
The obligatory group photo at CoSquare. :)
In late November, attendees from across the eastern region of North Carolina joined the NCGrowth team in Bertie County. Attendees learned about our projects supporting businesses, communities, and local and Tribal governments including Pamlico County, Enc96radio, the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe, Town of Garysburg, and Slice 325. After lunch, the team and guests toured Indulge Aesthetics, the Cashie Treehouse Village, and the site of a developing park in Bertie County currently known “Tall Glass of Water”.
The town of Garysburg, located in Northampton County, NC, aims to revitalize its old elementary school by transforming it into a mixed-socioeconomic development hub. This project seeks to provide employment opportunities, educational resources, and foster social and economic growth for the community. NCGrowth analyzed diverse revenue streams and effective cost-management strategies to ensure long-term value for the town. NCGrowth analyst and UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA candidate, Rex Chauhan, developed a robust financial model that projected revenue streams, analyzed costs, and estimated returns on investment. NCGrowth also identified key personnel roles, and qualifications, and provided job descriptions.
Big Boys Kitchen (BBK) Catering is a catering company operated and located in the territory of Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. The co-owner and CEO of the company, Patrick Dial, has extensive experience catering local events, church events, weddings, school events, and other private functions. The menu offering includes a variety of BBQ options with a local NC flavor. Pat asked NCGrowth to support their efforts to expand their offerings and establish an online presence. NCGrowth provided a competitive analysis and audit of BBK’s online marketing presence.