Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $3 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in New Orleans, Louisiana

November 30, 2009
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 400 Jobs and Generate $132 Million in Private Investment

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the University of New Orleans Foundation in New Orleans, La., to help spur economic recovery following recent hurricanes by expanding the production capacity of the UNO Robert E. Nims Center for Entertainment Arts, a film and creative media design incubator facility. The project is expected to create 400 jobs and generate $132 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will create jobs, accelerate innovation and encourage entrepreneurship by expanding the Nims Center and supporting the emerging New Orleans film and digital media sector."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses that works to grow local economies by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products and services. Locke is a member of President Barack Obama's economic team.

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.