Delta Compass receives economic development grant
Justin Archer Burch, CEO of Delta Compass, recently announced that the organization has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Walton Family Foundation to support its initiatives in advancing economic recruitment in the Mississippi and Arkansas Delta. The organization says the funding will be instrumental in fostering economic inclusion and driving long-term growth in the underserved regions.
The grant enables Delta Compass to provide direct support in critical areas such as industry recruitment, real estate analysis, job creation and skill development. By honing in on these key sectors, the organization aims to transform the region into competitive markets capable of navigating acquisition deals, land transfers, site selection and industrial development. The initiatives are specifically designed to attract mid- to large-sized industries to the Delta region, with the goal of creating a significant number of livable wage jobs that will stimulate the local economy.
“Our mission is to drive meaningful, sustainable economic development in the Delta region, and this grant from the Walton Family Foundation allows us to deepen our impact,” said Burch. “We are committed to building a stronger, more inclusive economy for our communities, ensuring they are well-positioned to attract new industries and provide long-term employment opportunities.”
The work of Delta Compass will focus on enhancing local infrastructure and preparing the workforce with the skills needed to meet the demands of modern industries. This comprehensive approach to economic development aims to empower local residents and create a robust pipeline of jobs that offer livable wages and career advancement.
The support from the Walton Family Foundation comes at a crucial time, as rural communities in the Delta face unique challenges in attracting new businesses and industries. Organization leaders say that, with Delta Compass at the forefront of these efforts, the Delta is poised to see a revitalization of local economies through targeted strategies in industry recruitment and workforce development.
