Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $325,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Bottineau, North Dakota

December 28, 2009
Contact: Lindsey Pangretic, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 150 Jobs and Generate $31.6 million in Private Investment, According to Grantee Estimates

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $325,000 grant to Dakota College at Bottineau in Bottineau, N.D., to help expand the Entrepreneurial Center for Horticulture. The project is expected to create 150 jobs and generate $31.6 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"Economic recovery and growth are top priorities for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will advance regional competitiveness and create new jobs by expanding a facility that is assisting entrepreneurs in developing organic agricultural products."

"Production, distribution, and marketing of vegetables are core components of tapping into the burgeoning value-added agricultural industry in North Dakota and in the Midwest region of the United States," said Dr. Ken Grosz, Campus Dean, Dakota College at Bottineau. "EDA's support of Dakota College's Entrepreneurial Center for Horticulture has kick-started the college's efforts to be the research, demonstration, and educational clearinghouse for the industry."

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.