Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2 Million to Support Manufacturing Training in the Grand Strand Region

Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
September 16, 2016

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $2 million grant to Horry-Georgetown Technical College of Conway S.C., for the construction of a Georgetown campus building dedicated to advanced manufacturing training.

“Through our ‘Skills for Business’ initiative, the Department of Commerce has made skills and workforce development a priority,” said Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. “This EDA grant will enable the Grand Strand region to meet critical workforce development needs and industry demand for skilled workers.”

EDA’s investment will allow Horry-Georgetown Technical College, a significant provider of training in the Grand Strand Region, to offer career development training in mechatronics, advanced welding, robotics, and machine tooling. The investment will help construct the 30,000 sq. ft. building on the Georgetown campus. According to grantee estimates, this project will create 248 jobs, save 40 jobs, and generate nearly $15 million in private investment.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth. To learn more about EDA, visit www.eda.gov.