WILSON, N.C. – Wilson Community College has been awarded $585,000 from the Golden LEAF Foundation to support its new Agribusiness Technology program, strengthening workforce training and agricultural innovation in Wilson County.
Wilson County Government supported Wilson Community College’s application by partnering with grant writing and providing the required County Manager endorsement needed for the proposal to move forward. County leaders were instrumental in the brainstorming and discussion process, and their support enabled the College’s application to be considered for funding.
“This program supports the strong agricultural and agribusiness economy in Wilson County. We are proud that our community college continues to partner with our agricultural community to support next generation training and job readiness,” stated County Manager Ron Hunt. “We greatly appreciate the Golden LEAF Foundation’s support for this program.”
The funding will support personnel, a hydroponics lab, an irrigation system, technology equipment, and related instructional resources, providing students with hands-on training aligned with the evolving needs of modern agriculture and agribusiness.
The award was approved as part of Golden LEAF’s Community-Based Grants Initiative in the North Central Prosperity Zone, which invested in workforce preparedness, agriculture, and job creation across the region.
“This investment allows Wilson Community College to broaden educational opportunities in one of our region’s most vital industries,” said Dr. Jami Woods, President of Wilson Community College. “Through the Agribusiness Technology program, students will gain practical, in-demand skills. At the same time, this work positions our college to contribute to the advancement of agricultural knowledge and sustainable production methods.”
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of eastern North Carolina’s economy, and the new program is designed to equip students with training in advanced production methods, sustainable practices, and agricultural technology. Graduates will be prepared for careers across agribusiness, controlled-environment agriculture, and related fields.
Farming and agribusiness are the bedrock of the economy in Wilson County. According to a yearly report on agriculture from Norman Harrell, Wilson County Cooperative Extension Director, Wilson County farmers brought in an estimated income of $154,934,027 from farm gate sales of farm products in 2025.
Golden LEAF Foundation leaders emphasized the broader economic impact of projects like Wilson Community College’s new program.
“Agriculture is not just an industry, but a way of life and an economic driver in rural communities. By supporting hands-on agribusiness training at Wilson Community College, students will gain the skills needed to pursue careers close to home and support the employers who depend on a strong, prepared workforce,” said Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamiton. “The Golden LEAF Foundation is proud to support Wilson Community College’s strategy to expand its new Agribusiness Technology program.”
Since its establishment in 1999, the Golden LEAF Foundation has invested more than $1.5 billion in projects across North Carolina to advance economic opportunity in rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities.
For more information about Wilson Community College and the Agribusiness Technology program, visit https://www.wilsoncc.edu/programs/agribusiness-technology/.
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