WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the United States Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded a $2.2 million grant to Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, the Buckeye Hills Regional Council, and the Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Association. These funds will be used to provide technical assistance to aid with the economic diversification in 18 counties in the Appalachian region of Ohio.

“These funds will provide 18 counties with additional tools and resources to address the economic fallout from COVID-19,” said Brown. “Not only will this investment support recovery efforts, but it could also help lead to more jobs and economic growth in Athens and the surrounding area.”

The EDA is the only federal government agency focused exclusively on economic development. The program is designed to provide financial assistance to communities, and promote economic development. The CARES Act, signed into law on March 27, 2020, provides the EDA with $1.5 billion specifically for economic development assistance programs to help communities prevent, prepare, and respond to coronavirus.                                            

EDA grants are awarded through a competitive process based upon the application’s merit, the applicant’s eligibility, and the availability of funds.  More information on EDA’s grant process and investment process can be found at www.eda.gov. 

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