Rural Harnett County is emerging from economic adversity stronger and smarter. The county, which is located less than 50 miles from the acclaimed Research Triangle Park and 30 minutes from Fayetteville's prestigious military installations, has many assets in its economic development tool kit -- a skilled and abundant workforce, lower taxes and land costs, three certified industrial parks and a strong determination to succeed. When the county's textile-based economy was devastated, local leaders reacted with creativity and innovation. One of the key items they added to their tool kit -- an innovative and aggressive local incentive program. Harnett County offers financial incentives for companies seeking to expand or relocate in the county. The incentive program is designed to stimulate development by creating new investments and new jobs with higher wage rates.

Guidelines for expansion of existing business and industry:
Expansion Investment Level	% Property Taxes	Term
$1.5 million or greater $10 million or greater $20 million or greater	80% 80% 80%	Three (3) Years Five (5) Years Seven (7) Years

Harnett County offers an Economic Development Incentive (EDI) Grant Program, which involves a contractual agreement between Harnett County and a new or existing business/ industry that allows for a financial incentive grant based upon the actual value, schedule and payment of county property taxes for a period of up to seven (7) years. The county requires the business/industry to pay in full annually total property taxes due. If the business/ industry has met specific criteria as outlined in a formal agreement, a portion of the property tax paid by that business/ industry to the county for up to seven (7) consecutive tax years would be returned to the business/ industry. The term of the Grant is based on the amount of investment. Each project is considered on an individual basis using guidelines established under the direction of the Harnett County Board of Commissioners.
      As further evidence of the county's unified, pro-business climate, each of Harnett County's five municipalities has agreed to match the terms of the county incentive grant for projects located within their corporate limits.