Press Releases

Pittston, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that the Economic Development Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA Alliance) received a $70,000 Cooperative Agreement grant for a partnership-planning project from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).

This EDA grant supports the development and implementation of a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) for the region served by the NEPA Alliance, which includes Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, and Schuylkill counties. The CEDS process is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic development roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy.

“These funds advance our communities by bringing together public and private sectors to establish an economic development planning framework, process, and strategy that supports private capital investment and job creation in the region,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Appropriations Committee. “I am proud to support programs that enhance economic expansion and generate family-sustaining jobs.”

“NEPA Alliance appreciates our partnership with Economic Development Administration (EDA) in providing regional economic development planning,” said Jeff Box, President and CEO of NEPA Alliance. “We greatly appreciate the support from Congressman Cartwright in our efforts to promote economic growth in Northeastern PA.”

As the only federal government agency focused exclusively on economic development, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) plays a critical role in facilitating regional economic development efforts in communities across the nation. The EDA investment policy is designed to establish a foundation for sustainable job growth and the building of durable regional economies throughout the United States. This foundation builds upon two key economic drivers - innovation and regional collaboration. The EDA encourages its partners around the country to develop initiatives that advance new ideas and creative approaches to address rapidly evolving economic conditions.