Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $377,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Little Rock, Arkansas

August 31, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $377,000 grant to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (ULAR) in Little Rock, Ark., to help develop a plan that will pin-point programs and identify partners to establish and advance innovation clusters and create jobs throughout the state.

"The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with University of Arkansas at Little Rock to boost business development and job growth," said Sandra R. Walters, EDA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. "This EDA grant will help bring higher-skill, higher-wage jobs to Arkansas by identifying innovative industries that will thrive and create a strategy to attract, retain and strengthen those industries."

EDA is an agency within the U.S. Commerce Department and 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.