Because rail access is vital to many prospective industries, the NCDOT began the rail industrial access program to provide an incentive to locate or expand their facilities in North Carolina. This funding helps ensure that companies have the railroad tracks needed to transport freight and materials. The program uses state funds to assist in constructing or refurbishing tracks required by a new or expanding industry to encourage economic development. Funding for the projects is contingent upon application approval prior to the industry making their decision to locate or expand their facility in North Carolina and a private and or local sources providing matching funds.

Local governments, community development agencies, railroad companies and industries are eligible for funds to improve rail access. Approval of requests is based on economic benefit of the project including the number of potential new jobs that will be created, the amount of capital investment, rail use and the area's economic conditions.