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It’s been two years since I was sworn in on August 13, 2021, as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. I am as honored today to serve in this role as I was on Day 1. I am proud of the notable achievements of the Economic Development Administration (EDA) in helping our country respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, build strong regional economies, and spur the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.

As the only federal government agency focused exclusively on U.S. economic development, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) plays a critical role in supporting regional economic development efforts in communities across the nation. An important part of this role is helping to equip economic development practitioners and policymakers with the data and informational tools they need to plan and implement effective strategies for regional innovation, global competitiveness, and economic growth.

Throughout its more than 50-year history, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has invested in coal and energy communities across the United States through a variety of funding opportunities. One of EDA’s seven Investment Priorities, Recovery & Resilience, is one way in which EDA remains focused on communities that are looking to recover from economic shocks, such as power plant closures or the decline of a major industry in the region, and to build resilient and diverse economies. 

EDA remembers Candace Waterman, a champion for women in business and economic opportunity for all.