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High-value amenities and a low cost of doing business drive economic growth.

It was a banner year for economic growth in the Greenville-Pitt County region in 2024.

“We’ve had three announced expansions among some of our existing companies,” says Josh Lewis, president and CEO of the Greenville Eastern North Carolina Alliance. “We’ve also had two new companies that have decided to call Greenville, North Carolina, home for their next manufacturing operations.”

Those companies investing in Greenville, NC, are Nipro Medical Corp., a medical equipment company based in Osaka, Japan, and Boviet Solar, a Vietnamese solar panel manufacturing and solar energy technology company.

“Nipro was a $400 million capital investment and a commitment to 232 jobs,” Lewis says. “We feel confident that they will continue to grow their presence beyond that. Boviet was a $300 million capital investment commitment and a 900-job manufacturing operation.”

Education, Careers & Opportunity

Check Out the New Developments in Greenville, NC

Site Selection and Pipeline of Talent

Between East Carolina University and Pitt Community College, more than 40,000 students in the area are enrolled in credit and noncredit programs, creating a steady pipeline of talent.

“The area is home to a growing talent pool, with expertise in manufacturing, engineering and clean energy sectors facilitated by strong local educational institutions,” says Songul Atacan, head of global brand and marketing at Boviet Solar. “We are committed to developing partnerships with local education institutions to create educational and training programs that support the solar industry and enhance local workforce development.”

Boviet Solar also selected Greenville because of its strategic location, strong infrastructure and favorable business climate.

Effective in 2025, North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate will decrease from 2.5% to 2.25% and continue to decrease until it reaches 0% in 2030.

“The region’s location provides easy access to key distribution hubs, making it ideal for efficient manufacturing and delivery,” Atacan says. “Greenville’s government and economic development agencies offer a pro-business environment, including incentives that promote renewable energy initiatives. The community’s focus on clean energy development made it a natural fit for Boviet Solar’s long-term vision.”

Nipro Medical Corp. echoes the community’s business-friendly attributes and benefits from joining the established medical hub of eastern North Carolina.

“Greenville offers an ideal combination of skilled workforce availability, robust infrastructure and a supportive business environment, all essential for a project of this scope,” says Annick Somers, chief marketing officer for Nipro Europe Group Companies N.V. “North Carolina is a recognized hub for medical device manufacturing, making it an ideal location for us to expand our presence in the industry. The welcoming reception from the state and local community underscores that this was the right choice for Nipro to set up a manufacturing facility of this size in North America.”

Looking Forward to More Growth

With a high quality of life and low cost of living, Greenville-Pitt County is poised for growth.

“Greenville provides an excellent quality of life, including affordable housing, access to nature, excellent schools and a vibrant community,” Atacan says. “The area offers a balanced lifestyle that will appeal to employees and their families, making it a great place to live and work.”

The city has experienced a nearly 4.1% population growth since 2010 and is 10.5% below the JobsEQ cost-of-living index.

“Population growth has been trending upward. Job growth has been trending upward. Our median household income has been trending upward. Our GDP has been growing at a much faster clip than most counties in North Carolina,” Lewis says. “Overall, we are a growing economy, and we are located within close proximity to a large MSA, which we feel positions us for growth in the coming years.”

Greenville looks forward to welcoming more companies and growing new partnerships.

“We’re winning projects based on our community assets, our partnerships, our training programs and our commitment to be there as a partner with those companies from the time they step foot in the community through operation,” Lewis says. “We are willing to help them in various ways, either through local permitting, finding the right contractors, finding the right partners, finding the right suppliers, helping them with utility infrastructure needs – whatever they need. We provide concierge-level service and always find a way to get it done.”

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Dickinson Avenue continues to transform into a vibrant arts and culture district.

Creative, innovative, community-driven, growth-focused – Greenville-Pitt County’s many positive qualities can be seen throughout the region, especially along Dickinson Avenue. This former service corridor near East Carolina University and ECU Health has been transformed into a thriving arts and entertainment district, and it’s still growing. Here’s a look at what’s happening along Dickinson Avenue and other new developments in Greenville, NC.

The district is home to apartments, office space, shops, restaurants, bars and breweries, plus it hosts outdoor events like Dickinson Avenue After Dark, a biannual downtown event that showcases breweries, cideries and wineries, as well as Freeboot Friday, a pre-home game celebration for next-day ECU fall football games.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is involved in a $30.7 million infrastructure improvement project along Dickinson Avenue that began in September 2022 and is scheduled for completion in mid-2026. Improvements include repaving as well as adding new waterlines, sewer lines, sidewalks, curbs, gutters and streetscape lighting. The upgrades are meant to be eye-pleasing as well as improve overall function, including modernizing the storm drainage system to reduce the chance of flooding.

“Both sides of Dickinson Avenue are undergoing several improvements to ensure that the district continues to be a growing destination for people who live here as well as visitors to Greenville,” says Josh Lewis, president and CEO of the Greenville Eastern North Carolina Alliance. “And there are more projects being planned.”

Education, Careers & Opportunity

Why Entrepreneurs Love to Do Business in Greenville, NC

New Developments in Greenville Are on the Horizon

One of those planned projects is Adler on the Avenue, a development that began in early 2025. Adler on the Avenue will feature a five-story, 155-unit apartment building with one- and two-bedroom units. The property is expected to attract anyone looking to experience life in downtown Greenville.

Another avenue development generating interest is The Ficklen, an upscale boutique hotel that will eventually be housed in a pair of former Star Tobacco warehouse buildings that will undergo a transformation. The 74-room hotel will be marketed as “a destination to work, eat, play and celebrate,” with amenities like a restaurant, a lobby bar and an outdoor courtyard.

“I was born and raised in Greenville, and my grandfather and father had accumulated land adjacent to the Star Tobacco warehouse,” says Will Clark, a member of Greenville-based Stark Holdings, the company that will redevelop the historic property.

“I always admired the four buildings that make up the warehouse, and planning started back in 2018 to transform two of those buildings into a hotel.”

The former Star Tobacco warehouse consists of four interconnected buildings totaling more than 150,000 square feet between Eighth Street and Ninth Street in the Dickinson Avenue district. There are a pair of one-story buildings, a two-story building and a three-story building. The Ficklen will be in the two- and three-story buildings.

“The downtown Dickinson Avenue area really needs a hotel,” Clark says. “The Ficklen will be near East Carolina University so that people coming to Greenville for events can stay near the university and also experience the entire district.”

Bright Future Ahead for The Ficklen

Clark says there is not a timeline for The Ficklen project because it is a complicated and complex endeavor.

“There are many steps to tackle because it’s a historic building that needs many upgrades, so we’re looking to receive tax credits to help defray the rising cost of reconstruction,” he says. “The redesign of the building is coming along well, so now we’re dealing with the cost factor. All construction and materials costs have obviously risen since we first began planning all this in 2018.”

Clark adds that along with The Ficklen, there are plans for one of the one-story warehouse buildings to be transformed into a large event space along with a food hall and a spacious vendor market.

“The hotel will be a great base so that visitors can enjoy the entire district area, and the food hall and market will be a nice draw for the whole Greenville community,” he says. “It’s going to be an exciting project once it all starts happening.”

Get to Know Greenville, NC

Want to learn more about living and working in Greenville, NC? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greenville-Pitt County, North Carolina.

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Meet an entrepreneurial family who is making a difference in the lives of children in eastern North Carolina.

Why do business in Greenville, NC? The Greenville-Pitt County region has long been an economic engine for eastern North Carolina. The region is home to strong industry sectors, including advanced manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device and supplies manufacturing, and emerging technology.

In addition to these mainstays, the region’s entrepreneurial arm helps drive opportunity and innovation, and further diversifies its economy.

Why Launch a Business in Greenville, NC?

Entrepreneurs choose to launch and grow a business in Greenville, NC, for many reasons – think community support, affordability, business resources, networking opportunities, etc. North Carolina native Tiana Berryman is the perfect example of someone who decided to open a business in the region and is now thriving.

In 2023, she and her husband, Kevin, opened a children’s play space called Sprouts Playground & Studio, which embraces both sensory exposure and joyous playtime. The center is geared toward children up to age 6 and has become a popular spot for play dates, birthday parties, dance lessons and music therapy.

Prior to launching Sprouts, Berryman received a master of public administration degree from East Carolina University (ECU) in 2013 and went on to launch a successful career in the field.

What opportunities did you see in Greenville-Pitt County when you considered starting a play space for children?When we first envisioned Sprouts Playground & Studio, we recognized a growing need in Greenville for a family-friendly space that catered to both the physical and creative development of children. Greenville is a vibrant community with a young, diverse population, and it became clear that there was a gap in services that blend active play with play-based learning.

As Greenville continues to grow, especially with a strong presence of students and young professionals from ECU, we knew there was an opportunity to provide a unique space that combines fitness, creativity and social interaction. Our goal was to create a place where parents could feel confident their children were being stimulated in a safe and supportive environment while also having fun.

With a career in government administration, what gave you the confidence to start a business outside of that field? Greenville is an ideal place to establish and grow a business. This city offers a combination of unique factors that make it a great place for businesses like ours to thrive.

One of the strongest factors is Greenville’s dynamic, family-oriented community. Greenville’s commitment to fostering a strong community means people are eager to support local businesses that serve their needs. With that being said, we absolutely benefited from the wisdom and guidance of local business leaders who were incredibly supportive as we took those first steps.

What resources or support did you take advantage of in the region?Specifically, we reached out to organizations like Monday Solutions Group (which helps leaders discover and maximize their primary strengths), financial consultant Influx of Wealth, and Koinonia Christian Center Church, all of which were instrumental in helping us structure our business, refine our ideas and stay motivated during the early stages. These resources offered valuable insight into local business dynamics and strategies that helped us build a solid foundation for Sprouts.

Why do you think entrepreneurs are finding success in Greenville-Pitt County?The presence of ECU adds an extra layer of vibrancy to the city. ECU brings in a diverse, educated and energetic population contributing to the local workforce and economy. We’ve looked to students for talent and innovation. As both ECU alumni and longtime residents, we understand the importance of building connections within this community, and the university itself has been an important part of that.

Love Where You Live

Embracing Culture and Diversity in Greenville, NC

What are other advantages of launching a business in Greenville-Pitt County?Greenville also offers a collaborative business environment, where local entrepreneurs are eager to support each other. We’ve had the privilege of learning from other local business owners and creating business-to-business sales opportunities.

Greenville’s relatively low cost of living and business-friendly climate make it an attractive place for entrepreneurs. Being a local family and proud ECU Pirates, we’re grateful to contribute to the continued success and development of our beloved community.

Get to Know Greenville

Want to learn more about living and working in Greenville, NC? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greenville-Pitt County, North Carolina.

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Troy Dreyfus, executive director of the Downtown Greenville Partnership, shares some of his favorite spots in downtown Greenville.

For Troy Dreyfus, Greenville was love at first sight. The North Carolina native grew up in nearby Raleigh and moved to Greenville to attend East Carolina University (ECU). “Once I came to ECU, I never left,” Dreyfus says. “I fell in love with the school. Greenville felt like home.”

As a student, Dreyfus lived in downtown Greenville and moonlighted at a few local nightclubs. After graduation, he had business opportunities in Raleigh, but he turned them down in favor of staying in Pitt County, opting to open Pirate Media Group — named for ECU’s mascot — in an old building located near the city center.

Eventually, Dreyfus launched a business consulting company and recently became executive director of the Downtown Greenville Partnership, which works to ensure that downtown is an essential component of the Greater Greenville area.

“I have been part of the fabric of downtown Greenville since I set foot in the city,” he says.

Over the years, he’s seen a lot of development take flight, as with Dickinson Avenue, one of two common consumption areas (or social districts) in Greenville where alcohol may be consumed on the street.

“That area has become really trendy, he says. “Early adopters said this could be something special. They bought buildings, renovated, put in restaurants. It continues to be revitalized.”

To give new residents and visitors a well-rounded view of downtown Greenville, Dreyfus shared some of his favorite spots. Mix and match the items below to create your ideal day downtown.

Coffee, Bars and Restaurants

Downtown Greenville boasts plenty of popular spots to grab a drink or bite. Check out cheerful, candy-colored Backstage Coffee for a.m. energy before hitting the Scullery for a casual meal or the rooftop at Sup Dogs — a spot thrice named best college bar in the country by Barstool Sports — for hot dogs, burgers or its famous “crushes,” which are made of citrus juice and flavored vodka.

“Sup Dogs has also formed its own vodka line and opened a distillery and cocktail bar across the street called Crush that’s a really popular place,” Dreyfus says.

He also loves Nash, whose Fifth Street location offers spicy chicken and live music.

Along Dickinson Avenue, higher-end eateries, like Native Fine Diner and Ford + Shep, offer a farm-to-table vibe, and the recently opened Homage Restaurant bills itself as a server of “Southern coastal cuisine.”

Shopping

For retail therapy, check out The Sojourner Whole Earth Provisions, a storefront stuffed with candles, crystals, spell books, tarot decks, herbs, jewelry and ceremonial objects catering to spiritual seekers. Just a few doors down is Emerge Gallery & Art Center, home to the nonprofit Pitt County Arts Council, where patrons can take in two galleries as well as art classes for all ages that run the gamut from drawing and painting to metalwork and ceramics.

For clothing, drop into Truly Yours, a boutique specializing in girly clothing, accessories and a smattering of candles and home decor. For ECU merch, visit University Book Exchange, which, according to Dreyfus, is the world’s largest supplier of ECU sportswear and has been keeping students and alums in style for five decades. The sprawling shop stocks everything from Pirates-branded manicure kits and dog collars to button-down shirts and textbooks.

Arts and Entertainment

During football season, Freeboot Friday takes over the city block at Fifth and Evans streets for a giant ECU Pirates pep rally.

“It correlates to the Friday before home football games,” Dreyfus says. “The community gets together for live music and entertainment. We have had Uncle Kracker, Sean Kingston and Rodney Atkins perform. There are food trucks and plenty of ice-cold beverages, and it’s completely free to the public. We have stuff for kids, too, making it a favorite family-friendly event.”

Another college-centric annual event is PirateFest, held in the spring. Dreyfus says it brings tens of thousands to downtown Greenville and attracts swashbucklers of all ages.

Throughout the year, the First Friday ArtWalk sees downtown art galleries open late on the first Friday of each month, and the Greenville outpost of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences welcomes guests with exhibits on astronomy, paleontology, and water and animal science year-round. Fifth Street’s State Theatre hosts a constant stream of music and comedy performances, from Fleetwood Mac and Taylor Swift cover bands and original artists to fraternity spelling bees and drag shows.

Get to Know Greenville-Pitt County

Want to learn more about living and working in Greenville, NC? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greenville-Pitt County, North Carolina.

For locals looking for a new way to experience Greenville, NC, and Pitt County, check out its campgrounds.

Camping near Greenville is a great way for visitors and locals alike to get to know this neck of the woods.

This section of eastern North Carolina offers several beautiful campgrounds as well as plenty of activities to take part in when not dreaming beneath the stars — think exploring, fishing, biking, dining and so much more.

Campgrounds Near Greenville, NC

The region’s campgrounds and RV parks offer an ideal nature retreat that you are sure to love.

Spend a relaxing weekend at Contentnea Creekside RV & Trail Park in Grifton, where you can enjoy this serene creek, which offers prime opportunities for paddling and fishing.

River Park North in Greenville allows you to experience nature and be close to urban amenities. The Tar River runs through this peaceful 324-acre tract, which is equipped with campsites, hiking trails, picnic tables and a fossil pit where kids can dig for ancient souvenirs.

Manning RV Campsite and Whispering Oaks RV Resort, both in Greenville, offer a balance of pristine nature and modern conveniences.

Outdoor Activities Nearby

The area is packed with activities, including several found outdoors, that you can enjoy during your outdoorsy adventure. The region’s greenways connect outdoor hubs across the city, with the South Tar River Greenway spanning the Town Common, a dog park, River Park North and Wildwood Park.

Choose to bike, rather than walk, the greenway and make your way to Wildwood Park, where you can enjoy the Chris Smith Mountain Biking Trails — 6 miles of single-track trails that loop around the park.

“The greenways are really popular and a really great opportunity to explore Greenville from a perspective that maybe you hadn’t considered before. The greenways offer a totally different idea of Greenville and maybe even Pitt County than what you’re picturing,” says Katie Winslow, garden coordinator for the Making Pitt Fit Community Garden.

The organization works to build a community of gardeners who share resources that make gardening a fun, inexpensive and successful experience.

Make sure to check out the Making Pitt Fit Community Garden, as it is a great way to spend time outdoors while contributing to a cause. A portion of the food produced is donated to the nearby Council on Aging nonprofit, which works to improve quality of life for Greenville’s elderly residents.

Winslow is happy to host tours of the Pitt Fit Community Garden and welcomes volunteers of all skill and mobility levels.

Where to Eat and Shop

To stock up on local produce and other goods during your stay — and to keep with the outdoor theme of your adventure — be sure to stop by the Leroy James Farmers Market, which is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from March through December.

As the largest county-run market between Raleigh and New Bern, it has become a popular shopping destination for all of eastern North Carolina. Offering local produce as well as unique artisan items, like handmade linens and natural cleaning products, the market has become a gathering place for the community.

“We wanted to sustain a farmers market that could be a hub for locally grown produce, not just to nourish people physically, but being a hub for the community, as well,” says Noel Smith, market manager.

For a farm-to-table experience, venture into Greenville for some delicious cuisine. Native Fine Diner offers an upscale twist on Southern diner fare, while Ford + Shep brings an eclectic rotating menu inspired by world cuisines. The newly revitalized Dickinson Avenue area is burgeoning with restaurants as well as its own Farmers and Makers Market, which features goods made or grown within 50 miles of the city.

There’s no shortage of outdoor spaces in Greenville-Pitt County, and locals and visitors alike are invited to partake in the myriad experiences available.

“There are great ways for you to utilize that space, to get outside and walk and move,” Smith says. “Visit the Town Common and take a walk on the greenway or along the Tar River and be outdoors with the community that you’re building.”

Get to Know Greenville-Pitt County

Want to learn more about living and working in Greenville, NC? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greenville-Pitt County, North Carolina.