Though Lee County attracts top companies because of its exceptional access, workforce and quality of life, community leaders have also developed a number of incentive programs to help business and the community grow together.

:: The Lee County Package
    The Lee County Economic Corp. — in cooperation with governing bodies for the Town of Broadway, the City of Sanford and Lee County — may provide financial incentives for companies seeking to relocate or expand business in Lee County.
   To qualify, a business must have a new capital investment of at least $5 million or, for expanding businesses, a new capital investment of at least $1 million. The incentive is based on the quality of jobs created and the amount of investment in the community.

:: Urban Progress Zone
    One Urban Progress Zone (UPZ) approved for Lee County allows additional tax credits. A total of $4,000 credit per job would be available for companies locating or expanding in the zone, along with an additional 7 percent tax credit for any machinery purchased there and up to $1,000 credit per employee for worker training.
   To be eligible, companies must pay an average weekly wage of at least $631.

:: Free Industrial Training
    Many companies qualify for free customized in-plant training and training for new and expanding industries provided by Central Carolina Community College, one of the state's largest community colleges.

:: North Carolina's 'Article 3J' Credits
    State incentives under the Credits for Growing Businesses program, also known as "Article 3J Credits," include tax credits for creating jobs, investing in business property and, in some counties, investing in real property. Credits may be combined to offset up to 50 percent of state income and franchise tax liability, and unused credits may be carried forward up to five years.
   To qualify in Lee County, growing businesses must create 10 or more full-time jobs or invest at least $1 million in business property.
   Article 3J Credits replaces the William S. Lee Act, which was repealed by the state legislature.

:: Additional Financing Options
   Financing options include state assistance from Industrial Revenue Bonds, Community Development Block Grants, the One North Carolina Fund and Job Development Investment Grants. Also, the Industrial Access/Road Access Fund, the Rail Industrial Access Program, the North Carolina Ports Income Tax Credit and federal Small Business Administration loans.