Press Release

U.S. EDA Invests to Spur Entrepreneurial Development in Mississippi

August 12, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $58,500 grant to the Mississippi Development Authority of Jackson, Miss., to provide technical assistance to existing and developing small businesses located in the Mississippi Delta, Southwest Mississippi, and Mississippi Gulf Coast Regions.

"Promoting innovation and providing entrepreneurs and small businesses with opportunities is vital to our nation's economic competitiveness," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This grant will identify Mississippi's strengths and capitalize upon the entrepreneurial spirit associated with those strengths, developing industry clusters and creating higher-skill, living-wage jobs."

"The project area has been plagued by high unemployment, low per capita income, and natural disasters. This investment will provide specialized training for entrepreneurs of small and emerging businesses, providing a much needed stimulus to the regional economy," said Joseph Deason, Chief Financial Officer of the Mississippi Development Authority.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov): This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.