Press Release

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke Announces $3 Million Investment to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Maricopa County, Arizona

May 21, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 600 Jobs and Generate $18 Million in Private Investment

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) investment to the Maricopa County Community College District of Phoenix, Ariz., to help design and build a bioscience incubator and training facility at GateWay Community College. The project is expected to create 600 jobs and generate $18 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our Nation's competitiveness," said Locke. "This EDA investment in the Maricopa County Community College District will strengthen the bioscience cluster in the Phoenix region by helping grow new companies, commercialize technologies and graduate students with the practical laboratory and business experience needed to meet the industry's workforce needs."

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.