The Department of Commerce seeks to encourage economic growth and to attract new industries; it has been successful in attracting foreign companies, especially to the Piedmont. The state's Small Business Development Center, Economic Developers' Association, and Governor's Office of Minority Business help companies to get started.
The state exempts all new industrial construction from local property taxes (except the school tax) for five years. Moreover, industrial properties are assessed very leniently for tax purposes. State and local governments have cooperated in building necessary roads to industrial sites, providing water and sewer services, and helping industries to meet environmental standards. Counties are authorized to issue industrial bonds at low interest rates. Generally conservative state fiscal policies, relatively low swage rates, and an anti-union climate also serve as magnets for industry. In 2003, the Department of Commerce scheduled a series of six regional meetings in an Open Door Tour to connect with local economic developers, county councils, and business leaders.