The Economic Development Administration (EDA), part of the Department of Commerce, became our region's partner in economic development over thirty years ago. Virtually every community has grown through an EDA grant for some vital piece of infrastructure. As noted on their website (http://www.eda.gov/) "The Economic Development Administration (EDA) was established under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3121), as amended, to generate new jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically-distressed areas of the United States. EDA assistance is available to rural and urban areas of the Nation experiencing high unemployment, low income, or sudden and severe economic distress."

EDA projects in our region have served as catalysts in regional growth. EDA funding helped to begin the Northern New Mexico Community College campus in Española. EDA has built courthouses, hospitals, water and sewer systems, and industrial parks. Countless EDA projects since 1965 have played a part in regional growth and development.

NCNMEDD works directly with the Austin Regional Office of EDA. NCNMEDD staff will be happy to answer questions about EDA guidelines and to assist in the preparation of proposals. For more information, please contact Barbara Deaux at 505-827-7313 or bdeaux@nm.net.