A system designed to promote NC job growth has strayed from its original purpose. Distressed counties remain distressed, suggesting the need for different approaches.
North Carolina has for many years used a system of tiers of economic distress to categorize counties for economic development incentive programs. An investigation by Carolina Public Press shows that the system has failed to improve outcomes and create jobs in the state’s poorest areas. These shortcomings are rooted in the convoluted history of the tier program. Other states have systems that avoid some of these issues and some lawmakers are already discussing alternative approaches. Trapped By Tiers is a three-part investigative series from Carolina Public Press, published Oct. 27-29, 2025. Carolina Public Press provides North Carolinians with trustworthy, in-depth reporting that holds power to account. We deliver independent, investigative news coverage of the topics that shape our state and local communities. Rather than just telling stories about the powerful, we tell stories that empower the public. Please consider becoming a sustaining member to help support this work that makes our state stronger. CPP is a wholly independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This report was made possible through the support of the Dogwood Health Trust, Press Forward, the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation and readers like you.
follow our Three-PART investigation
No progress for poor areas despite years of NC tier system designed to spark growth
NC three-tier system for counties designed to boost job growth. But many communities face chronic unemployment and other problems persist.
Flawed economic distress tier system not opening doors for growth in struggling communities
The shortcomings of the economic distress tier system used to promote economic development in NC are rooted in its convoluted history.
Seeking better options for NC economic development
With NC counties and communities experiencing persistent economic distress, policy makers seeking new solutions for job growth.
Resources
Contributors
This series is produced by the news team of Carolina Public Press.
Reporting by Jane Winik Sartwell.
Project Illustration by Brittain Peck.
Maps by Jane Winik Sartwell.
Photos by Melissa Sue Gerrits, Colby Rabon, Jane Winik Sartwell and Frank Taylor in addition to some provided photos.
Editing by Frank Taylor.
