The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded a US$734,000 grant to the North Carolina Coastal Federation Inc. in Newport, North Carolina, to construct a new shellfish aquaculture facility.
This project will provide logistical support to shellfish farmers who have been adversely affected by presidentially declared disasters, including recent hurricanes and the coronavirus pandemic. This EDA investment will be matched with US$183,500 in local funds.
“The Economic Development Administration works hand-in-hand with local communities to support their bottom-up, middle-out economic development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This strategic, place-based project will support regional business growth and create economic resiliency in the region.”
This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Eastern Carolina Council of Governments (ECCOG). EDA funds ECCOG 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.
“We are thankful for the Economic Development Administration’s support of North Carolina’s coastal infrastructure,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “This grant will provide funding for a state-of-the art aquaculture facility which will provide critical support for our state’s shellfish farmers.”
