South Texas College and the Starr County Industrial Foundation are the recipients of a $100,000 federal planning grant from the Economic Development Administration.

STC Director of Grant Development, Management and Compliance Virginia Champion says the grant will support the college and the SCIF’s interest in the development of a current Asset Map of Starr County. It will also facilitate a Strategic Planning Conference with key leaders and stakeholders.

Vice-Chair of the South Texas College Board of Trustees and President of the Starr County Industrial Foundation Rose Benavidez says this grant is important to the region.

“South Texas College and the Starr County Industrial Foundation have partnered once more to create a pathway to reinforce and improve the economic drivers for our community and this area,” said Benavidez. “This EDA grant will ensure that we maximize our joint efforts to strengthen our economic growth and set forth a plan to achieve a sustained level of success in Starr County and the region.”

STC President Shirley A. Reed says this grant is about building partnerships that benefit the community.

“South Texas College thanks the Economic Development Administration, the Starr County Industrial Foundation, and the employers and workforce in Starr County,” said Reed. “Together we continue to build the partnerships and train the high-skilled workforce that leads to meaningful employment, regional prosperity, and the sustainable improvement of communities.”

Project planning is set to begin this month. The project will receive an additional$25,000 in non-federal matching funds from STC, SCIF and other partners.