Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke Announces $1.5 Million Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Northern Vermont

September 22, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.5 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to Northern Enterprises, Inc., of St. Albans, Vt., to help build a food incubator facility to serve Northern Vermont. The project, made possible because of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), is expected to create additional jobs and private investment in the region.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This grant will help create new jobs and boost private investment by establishing a business incubator facility that will provide office space and technical assistance to grow food-related entrepreneurial ventures in Northern Vermont."

The Recovery Act was signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009. It is providing immediate relief for American families and jump-starting billions of dollars in new projects that are creating jobs, improving infrastructure and strengthening local economies.

"This project will put people to work, putting shovels, hammers and saws in the hands of people in need of work. Most importantly, it will put people to work next year and for decades to come developing new small businesses, enhancing Vermont's agriculture-based and food-based economy, and providing new opportunities to entrepreneurial Vermonters," U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy said.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders said, "This grant is another example of how the economic recovery package is helping Vermont and states across the country rebuild our crumbling infrastructure and in the process create millions of good-paying jobs."

"This grant will provide a tremendous boost to entrepreneurial Northern Vermonters, support local agriculture and create jobs," said Rep. Peter Welch. "I'm pleased that these federal economic recovery dollars will be put to such good use."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses. It focuses on creating jobs by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products.

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.