Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $800,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in New Orleans, Louisiana

April 28, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced an $800,000 grant to The Idea Village of New Orleans, La., to encourage industry cluster development in the New Orleans region by identifying growing emerging businesses and providing technical assistance through the IDEA Corps program.

"The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with The Idea Village to boost business development and job growth," said Sandra R. Walters, EDA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. "This EDA grant will help significantly strengthen the competitive advantage of the New Orleans region by spurring cluster-based business development."

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.