This EDA investment supports the renovation of rock island argenta depot in north little rock, arkansas

The Economic Development Administration awarded Shorter College, Inc. a $1.875 million project grant under the Investments for Public Works and Economic Development Facilities program (CFDA 11.300) on May 2, 2023. The grant funds will support Shorter College's renovation of the Rock Island Argenta Depot in North Little Rock, Arkansas to establish an Entrepreneurial Technology Center. The Center will provide workforce development training and certifications to students throughout the region, preparing them for in-demand jobs in technology and entrepreneurship. Upon completion, the project is intended to expand business operations and attract private investment, bolstering higher-paying jobs in the area. As a private, faith-based historically black college and university, Shorter College will leverage this EDA funding to strengthen its workforce development offerings and support regional economic growth in North Little Rock through the Entrepreneurial Technology Center.

The development of the entrepreneurial technology center will help prepare students for in-demand jobs and provide workforce development training certifications for students throughout the region. Once completed, the project allows for the expansion of business operations, which will help bolster higher paying jobs and attract private investment in the area.