One of those resources includes the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program. REDLG awards provide zero-interest, pass-through loans to rural cooperative utilities to fund local projects that create and retain jobs, boost economic growth and improve quality of life in rural America.

In 2025 North Carolina’s electric co-ops were awarded more than $8 million in funding across 17 projects.

“Cooperatives serve as a linchpin connecting communities to low-cost funding for projects that improve quality of life for rural residents,” said Ann Fitts, community development specialist and REDLG program lead for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “For the cooperatives, powering prosperity means enhancing public safety, increasing healthcare access and supporting opportunities that attract new business investment and quality jobs.”

Through the funding, co-ops have helped emergency services, such as fire departments, EMS and police departments, strengthen their capabilities by purchasing new fire trucks and patrol cars and improve emergency service facilities.

REDLG funding has also supported employment growth in rural North Carolina by financing the construction of industrial buildings where businesses can relocate or expand their operations. These opportunities help create jobs, increase the tax base and attract investments in co-op communities.
Over the past five years, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have received more than $47 million through 95 REDLG awards, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting rural communities.