Moore County economic development efforts continue gaining momentum as local leaders report more than 1,200 potential jobs tied to active business recruitment projects across the Sandhills.
The Moore County Economic Development Partnership recently released its quarterly progress report, highlighting major business recruitment, workforce development, and community growth initiatives during the first quarter of 2026.
Moore County Economic Development Activity Expands
According to the report, Moore County economic development officials received 109 business leads during the current fiscal year.
As of March, the organization was actively working on 29 projects spanning multiple industries. Those projects represent more than 1,225 potential jobs and approximately $595 million in possible capital investment.
Officials say nearly 70 percent of business inquiries came directly from companies interested in locating or expanding in Moore County, showing increased visibility for the county as a business destination.
MCEDP President Natalie Hawkins also highlighted two recently awarded grants totaling $100,000 focused on supporting small businesses and attracting future biofuel industry investment.
Biofuel Industry Recruitment Underway
One of the largest new initiatives involves a $75,000 Rural Business Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The funding will help Moore County pursue North Carolina’s first Biofuel Development Opportunity rating to attract biomass-based companies and expand future industrial recruitment efforts.
MCEDP is partnering with Ecostrat, a biomass supply chain consulting firm, to complete the evaluation and launch a marketing campaign aimed at bringing biobased industries to the county.
Commercial Air Service and Industrial Growth Continue
Moore County economic development leaders also continue supporting efforts to restore commercial airline service to Moore County Airport.
Earlier this year, local business and community leaders launched the “Fly Local” campaign at Pinehurst Resort in hopes of bringing daily flights between Moore County and Washington Dulles International Airport by Spring 2027.
Organizers say more than $1.7 million has already been pledged toward the funding requirement needed to secure airline service. More information is available at FlyMooreCounty.com.
Meanwhile, development planning continues for future industrial park sites near Pinebluff and Vass. One proposed site near Pinebluff has already been selected for Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program for further evaluation.
The report also noted improving local economic conditions, including a year-over-year gain of more than 2,600 jobs and rising average wages across Moore County.
For more business and development news across Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Pinehurst, and the Sandhills, stay connected with Star 102.5 and the Sandhills News Minute.
