Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians receives $12 million in federal grants to expand economic development drivers

• Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben said the funding represents another step forward in creating opportunities for his people. The grants will go to two projects – a new 200-acre industrial park and the completion of a workforce training center.

Grant awards totaling just over $12 million provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration will be used to build new economic development drivers in Choctaw, Mississippi.

The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians will use the federal funding to build a new 200-acre industrial park and complete and equip a new vocational training center.

“This grant represents another step forward in creating opportunities for our people. We have run out of industrial property, and this investment gives us the infrastructure to bring industry to Choctaw lands and create jobs for our community,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben. 

The majority of the grant funding, nearly $10.7 million, will be used to help pay for the installation of infrastructure in the new industrial park, to include roads, water and sewer systems, and storm drainage features.

State Rep. Donnie Bell (R), chair of the Mississippi House Workforce Development Committee, said he is pleased to see the project promote the area for development by putting the infrastructure in place.

Another $1.9 million will be used for the ongoing construction of the Tribe’s Workforce Training Center and the necessary acquisition of training equipment.

“The $1.9 million commitment to help train to our workforce, that’s tremendous,” Bell added. “I just see it as a win, win for Mississippi, especially anytime we can get federal dollars to help offset costs.”

Specialized equipment is required to effectively train the workforce in the center. Focus fields include HVACR, electrical, welding and other trades currently in high demand.

“With our recently opened education facilities and ongoing job training programs, we are putting the pieces together to fulfill our goal of self-determination. We appreciate the U.S. Economic Development Administration continuing to have confidence in the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians,” Ben added.

Deputy Assistant Secretary and Chief Operating Officer Ben Page said the Economic Development Administration proudly provides funding that invests in projects that “revitalize and rebuild local economies.”

“These awards will help fuel business expansion, create jobs, and attract private investment across the American Southeast,” Page said. 

 A groundbreaking for the new industrial park is expected sometime next year.