Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that ACCION Texas has been awarded $720,000 from the Economic Development Administration (EDA). ACCION is a statewide non-profit organization aimed at helping small businesses that have difficulty getting loans from banks.

“These funds will help potential Laredo and Webb County business owners obtain the resources needed to start their businesses,” said Congressman Cuellar. “The creation and success of small businesses are economically necessary for our growing communities, and the assistance that the EDA has provided for ACCION Texas will surely benefit the City of Laredo, Webb County, and it’s surrounding communities.”

This investment supports the purchase and renovation of a building in Laredo to house an ACCION regional hub for small and micro-business lending, technical assistance and financial literacy training.  The money will also save 250 jobs, create 50 new jobs, and attract more than $180,000 in private investment.

President and CEO of ACCION Texas Janie Barrera said, “ACCION Texas is excited about the generous support from the Economic Development Administration in helping us to purchase a wonderful building that will enable us to expand our services in Laredo and surrounding counties through our new ACCION Texas Border Entrepreneurship and Business Financial Training Center. We want people to know we are here for them with access to capital and training as they start and grow their businesses.  We’re here to help small businesses thrive and contribute to a vibrant economy in the City and region.”

Congressman Cuellar continued, “As a member of the House Small Business Committee, I strongly support the collaboration between small business owners and the federal government. I’d like to commend the EDA for providing the citizens of Laredo and Webb County with the chance to make a difference in our community. I would also like to thank Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez and regional EDA administrator Pedro Garza for their continued efforts in helping our communities achieve their economic goals.”

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.

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