February 4, 2008 Helping Fuel Economic DevelopmentWASHINGTON, DC —The American Planning Association (APA) received a Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to assist communities and regions with economic development practices. This is the first time APA has received the grant. The grant enables APA to share its economic development resources and best practices with a larger audience of economic development practitioners, community leaders and engaged citizens. Information disseminated through a monthly e-newsletter, a quarterly broadcast and publication will target recovery of distressed regions or stressed economies. Each publication issue will focus on various aspects of economic development such as innovation, entrepreneurship, regionalism and world-wide competitiveness. "Planning for economic development is vital to create healthy and thriving communities," said Jeff Soule, FAICP, APA Director of Outreach and International Programs. "This grant will ensure that planners, economic development advocates, and community leaders receive necessary and timely information to help revitalize communities all across the US." For more information and to subscribe to the monthly e-newsletter. APA members are invited to contribute case studies on economic development for consideration by contacting Richard Lukas, Senior Outreach Associate, at rlukas@planning.org. About EDAThe Economic Development Administration's mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. Learn more about EDA at www.eda.gov. ContactRoberta Rewers, 312-786-6395; rrewers@planning.org | ||
