RURAL RELIEF.

• Author: Mildenberg, David
• Position: STATEWIDE: East

Sparking economic growth in rural eastern North Carolina is the goal of a $1 million grant by the Golden LEAF Foundation to the region's largest educational institution. The money will support East Carolina University's RISE-29 effort, which helps graduates start businesses throughout the 29-county region or assist existing enterprises that are making succession and continuity plans. A key goal is to reverse the trend of declining population in much of the area.

"This innovative partnership will help create 150 jobs in rural communities and provide long-term business-growth strategies for current and budding business leaders," Golden LEAF...