Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $150,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Fresno, California

March 9, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $150,000 grant to the Fresno Foundation at California State University, Fresno in Fresno, Calif., to lead the Regional Jobs Initiative to support research for economic cluster development and expansion in the San Joaquin Valley.

"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 provide the San Joaquin Valley with vital economic data needed to spur innovation, advance regional competitiveness and create much needed job opportunities."

"The program will provide funding to The Office of Community and Economic Development at Fresno State," said Mike Dozier, Director of the Office of Community and Economic Development. "This will assist in coordinating regional collaborative economic development and higher education programs in Fresno County and throughout the San Joaquin Valley."

The Economic Development Administration marks 45 years of public service, leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.

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.