Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $2.75 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Roseburg, Oregon

October 30, 2009
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 165 Jobs and Generate $60,000 in Private Investment

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $2.75 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians of Roseburg, Ore., to help renovate an existing building for use as the Roseburg Incubator and Data Center. The facility will provide the work space and technical assistance needed to foster development of new business ventures and will include a secure data server area that will help local businesses meet their data storage needs. The project is expected to create 165 jobs and generate $60,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will establish a business incubator and data storage facility that will work to strengthen the entrepreneurial sector and create higher-skill, higher-wage job opportunities in Douglas County."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses that works to grow local economies by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products and services. Locke is a member of President Barack Obama's economic team.

EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster economic growth and job creation. 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 global 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.