U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $675,000 to Support the Agricultural Production Industry in Baldwin, North Dakota

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $675,000 grant to Enhancing and Strengthening North Dakota Nonprofits and Communities in Minot, North Dakota, to boost agricultural production in the region.

This grant will help construct a regional processing facility for local foods, providing classrooms, kitchen facilities, warehouse space and more. This EDA investment will be matched with $168,329 in local funds and is expected to create 47 jobs and generate $1.8 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“The U.S. Economic Development Administration works closely with local communities to support place-based economic development,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and External Affairs, performing the non-exclusive functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth. “This project will provide agricultural entrepreneurs with the foundation to build and grow their small businesses, diversifying the regional economy, creating jobs, and spurring private investment.”

“North Dakota excels at value-added agriculture,” said Senator Kevin Cramer. “Investments like this drive innovation, boost economic development in our communities, and help families put food on the table. North Dakota stands to gain for many years to come as a result of the construction and use of this facility.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Lewis and Clark Regional Development Council (LCRDC). EDA funds LCRDC to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

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.