Opportunities offered
EDA’s Johnson leads discussion on possible grants
The Grundy Economic Development Council (GEDC) hosted local policymakers for an educational luncheon to discuss new federal grant opportunities for Grundy County.
Ean Johnson from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) was on hand to lead the discussion. Johnson serves as the EDA Economic Development Specialist and primary point of contact for entities in the state of Illinois.
More than 30 people attended the session at Chapin’s Restaurant in Morris, including representatives from the City of Morris and the Villages of Braceville, Carbon Hill, Channahon, Coal City, Diamond, Dwight, Mazon and Minooka. Representatives were also on hand from the Grundy County board and local economic development organizations.
Johnson discussed several potential funding programs administered by the EDA. Opportunities are available for Grundy County through the Public Works and Economic Development Act (PWEDA), the EDA’s Planning and Local Technical Assistance Programs, Public Works and Economic Assistance Programs, and Federal Disaster Relief programs. He also invited applicants to contact him directly for assistance in navigating the grant application process and determining qualifying projects.
Grundy County became eligible for PWEDA and other EDA program assistance after completing its first Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The GEDC began work on the CEDS in late 2010, and received final approval from the EDA in the fall of 2011. The CEDS is the result of collaboration between public and private sector entities to determine a plan for regional growth and expansion. Grundy County is also eligible for federal disaster assistance following the effects of the 2011 blizzard.
The GEDC is a not-for-profit organization that fosters partnerships between the business, labor, community, and education sectors. Working with these local entities, the GEDC strives to produce a strong and successful business environment for Grundy County. When businesses are considering where to locate or expand, the GEDC serves as their primary resource in Grundy County.