Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $2.1 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Austin, Texas

August 17, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $2.1 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to Southwest Key Programs, Inc., of Austin, Tex., to help expand the Social Enterprise Complex. The expansion will help the organization provide workforce training to approximately 4,000 workers in a five-year period, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This grant will help workers obtain the critical skills they need to move into higher-skilled, higher-wage jobs."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses. It focuses on creating jobs by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products.

EDA is an agency within the Department of Commerce and supports the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. Its mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.

Additional information on how EDA investments are helping distressed communities create a positive and sustainable economic future can be accessed at: http://www.eda.gov.