Case Study Provalus Location in Columbus County
The Provalus project in Whiteville, NC is a case study in what’s possible when public-private partnerships, economic development leadership, and mission-driven real estate expertise come together. Kelly Stuart’s economic development and commercial real estate experience, coupled with her commitment to her clients and her community, helped bring 200 future-focused jobs to a region ready to grow. This project didn’t just revitalize a building—it’s helping revitalize a community.
Kelly Stuart with Sun Coast Partners Commercial represented the owners of the building and worked closely with Dr. Gary Lanier, Columbus County Economic Development, to facilitate negotiations for the sale to the City of Whiteville for this project. Kelly’s background in economic development enabled her to patiently navigate the many moving parts of this unusual purchase agreement.
When Alabama-based IT solutions provider Provalus sought to expand its U.S. operations, its mission to revitalize rural communities aligned perfectly with the available opportunity in downtown Whiteville, NC. What followed was a complex, collaborative effort involving local and state leaders, the property's owners, and the Provalus team—anchored by Kelly’s ability to navigate public-private partnerships, guide negotiations, and help close a deal with lasting regional impact.
"This is one of the most gratifying announcements I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of. Gary trusted me to be part of the process from day one, which gave me the insight I needed to help guide my clients through a truly meaningful decision—not just for them, but for the future of Whiteville.”
— Kelly Stuart, Seller Representative with Sun Coast Partners Commercial
When Alabama-based IT solutions provider Provalus sought to expand its U.S. operations, its mission to revitalize rural communities aligned perfectly with the available opportunity in downtown Whiteville, NC and the property owners' strong local ties to the community and desire to see quality jobs created for this and future generations.. What followed was a complex, collaborative effort involving local, regional and state leaders, the property's owners, and the Provalus team—supported by Kelly’s ability to navigate public-private partnerships, guide negotiations, and help close a deal with lasting regional impact.
“Kelly was more than a broker in the Provalus deal. She used her extensive background and understanding of economic development to help bring high-paying IT jobs to Columbus County.”
— Les High and Stuart High Rogers, Former Owners, News Reporter Building
Provalus, an Alabama-based company that provides IT services to meet corporate America’s BPO, ITO, Helpdesk and Call-center needs, will occupy the former News Reporter building in downtown Whiteville, creating up to 200 jobs over the next five years. While many companies outsource tech support overseas, Provalus says , “We’re elevating high-potential rural communities by creating technology, business and support careers for undiscovered talent in the U.S.” These new jobs have the potential to create an economic impact of more than $3.7 million for the region each year.
“Provalus is purpose-driven… elevating under-served communities by creating technology, business and support careers for undiscovered talent in the U.S. Provalus offers Support, BPO and ITO services. We hire and develop the best and brightest untapped talent in our small towns and rural communities to deliver a remarkable experience for clients and end-users alike. By creating opportunities where there were none; with companies that believe in America’s future, Provalus is generating a dedicated superior workforce. We are fueling a new era of technology talent equipped to strengthen America’s future.… PROVIDING OUTSOURCING VALUE FROM THE U.S.”