Information technology outsourcing firm Provalus plans a $6.48 million investment in the Chowan County town of Edenton that’s expected to create 61 jobs. Provalus was founded in 2017 and operates in Whiteville with plans for a site in North Wilkesboro.
Provalus pledged to invest $1 million and bring 150 jobs to North Wilkesboro in November. In Whiteville, Provalus pledged in 2023 a $500,000 investment and the creation of 92 jobs. Provalus is based in Brewton, Alabama, and six operations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Oklahoma. Four other projects are underway in Arkansas, Texas and Kentucky, in addition to North Wilkesboro.
Provalus operates under the name of Optomi. It operates in rural, veteran-heavy communities, where it trains workers for cybersecurity, application development, network operations and other areas. In Edenton, the company plans to upfit a former downtown Sears store.
“This new Center of Excellence represents more than just business growth; it’s a testament to our commitment to empowering communities and unlocking potential,” said Provalus’ President Mike Keogh in a release. “It’s a reflection of our belief in the region’s talent and the promise of its future.”
Average wages for the positions will be $46,393, $9 more than the current average wage in Chowan County. A performance-based grant of $150,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help facilitate Provalus’ project in Edenton. OneNC grants require a matching grant from local governments.