Green Valley Initiative Positions Region For Federal Funds

CORONA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Green Valley Initiative has helped open the door to federal funding for clean- and green-technology projects taking root in the Inland Empire.

A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) commissioned by the Green Valley Initiative and its parent organization, the Green Institute for Village Empowerment, (GIVE), was accepted Oct. 8 by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and has qualified the region for federal funding related to the initiative. A CEDS is required to qualify for EDA assistance under its public works, economic adjustment, and most planning programs, and is a prerequisite for designation by EDA as an economic development district.

GVI's CEDS, "A Framework for Green Technology Business and Job Creation in the Inland Empire," outlines the strengths, challenges and opportunities for promoting green-technology in the region, and identifies steps to be taken to help attain the goal of the Green Valley Initiative, a regional economic development plan focused on establishing the Inland Empire as a major hub for green industry - a move that will create jobs and elevate the quality of life for the region.

The Seattle Regional Office of the Economic Development Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, "approves your CEDS document and supports the Green Institute for Village Empowerment in your economic development efforts," wrote Bill O'Neil, community planner for the U.S. EDA, in a letter of approval. "We hope the CEDS will assist your communities in their economic development activities as well as provide much needed help in seeking other public and private funding opportunities."

"This report has qualified the Inland Empire for funding from the EDA for projects related to our cause," said GVI Chairman Ali Sahabi. "This is a huge windfall that will help establish new facilities, programs and enterprises and create quality jobs in our region."

The report, prepared for the Green Valley Initiative by the USC Center for Economic Development, identifies potential economic clusters within the region, with a focus on solar and renewable power, trade and logistics, construction and other industries.

To view a copy of the report, visit www.greenvalleynow.org

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