Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.9 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds to Help Establish Tribal Cultural Center in Big Horn County, Montana

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.9 million grant to Little Big Horn Community College, Crow Agency, Montana, for the design and engineering of the Apsaalooke Cultural Center. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan’s Indigenous Communities program.

The project will highlight the cultural amenities and the history of the Crow Tribe of Indians, boosting tourism to the region and attracting new businesses.

“President Biden is committed to supporting Tribal communities in their recovery from the coronavirus pandemic,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will increase employment opportunities for Tribal members, spur private investment, and increase economic resiliency throughout the region.”

“Tribal communities were disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. "This EDA investment will expand the Tribe’s tourism sector, supporting new businesses, entrepreneurs, and artisans and strengthening the regional economy.”

“As more Americans recognize Montana as a top destination for travel, we’re working with tribal partners to promote the unique experiences that only Indian Country can provide,” said Governor Greg Gianforte. “With this investment, the Apsáalooke Cultural Center will showcase the Crow Tribe’s rich history, attracting visitors and investment in the region.”

This project is funded under EDA’s American Rescue Plan Indigenous Communities program, which allocates $100 million in American Rescue Plan funding specifically to support the needs of Tribal Governments and Indigenous communities. The program supports these partners to develop and execute economic development projects they need to recover from the pandemic and build economies for the future. Indigenous communities are also eligible and encouraged to apply under all of EDA’s other programs. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
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 invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.