Wilkes Economic Development Corporation President Jeff Garstka says that the EDC is a one-stop shop for anything businesses need and that they are a step ahead of some other areas because of money that was raised in the private sector for a special fund to help businesses and create jobs.  Monies from this fund can help the expansion of businesses by buying equipment or materials.  Garstka says the money from the fund is not to be used as “seed money” but can be used for small business loans.  My complete interview with EDC President Garstka can be heard on our website as a Focus on the Foothills podcast.