Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $160,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Tribal Areas of Washington, Oregon, and California

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

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $160,000 grant to the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development Corporation in Dallas, Ore., to produce a marketing development strategy to expand markets for Indian salmon fisheries.

"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 create new jobs and advance regional competitiveness by implementing a marketing study that will strengthen tribal fisheries."

"This marketing study will bring valuable comprehensive data to Northwest Indian Tribes that rely on salmon and related industries," said Michael Burton, Executive Director of Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians. "What we learn will help us broaden our seafood market base."

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.