Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.5 Million in West Texas A&M University Research Laboratories

March 20, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

Federal Grant Expected to Create 500 Jobs and Generate $6 Million in Private Money

The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $1.5 million grant to West Texas A&M University of Canyon, Texas to help build four research laboratories and related office space at the Palo Duro Research Center to boost agriculture, commercial business, and wind energy and alternative energy research.

"The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with West Texas A&M University to boost business development and job growth," said Sandra R. Walters, EDA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. "This EDA grant will help create 500 jobs and generate $6 million in private investment by providing a setting to facilitate small business interaction with university researchers with the goal of spurring agricultural and alternative energy innovation."

EDA 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.