Happy Holidays from the Golden LEAF Board and staff.
Golden LEAF’s mission is to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural, economically distressed, and tobacco-dependent communities.
In 2021, the Golden LEAF Board of Directors awarded funding to 57 projects totaling $73.6 million to support job creation and economic investment; workforce preparedness; agriculture; and community competitiveness, capacity, and vitality. Additionally, Golden LEAF adopted a long-term strategic plan, which led to the creation of new and expansion of existing programs, enhanced the Golden LEAF Scholarship Program, and increased outreach to help strengthen North Carolina’s economy.
Golden LEAF’s 15-member Board of Directors is appointed by the Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House. Laurence Lilley of Williamston joined the Board of Directors this year. Golden LEAF also hired a Scholarship Program Manager Arlena Ratliff.
The Foundation Board holds meetings every other month to award funds for projects supporting long-term economic growth. Read more about Golden LEAF’s Board meetings in the press releases below: