ECGRA Microenterprise Development Program Supports New American Entrepreneurship
Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) joined City of Erie Mayor Joe Schember at his weekly press conference focused on entrepreneurial efforts boosting Erie's economy this morning to announce that an expanded Microenterprise Development Program grant will be administered by the International Institute of Erie (IIE). The model, based on successful programs in other communities, provides general microenterprise development training courses during which entrepreneurs are given the tools needed to plan, launch and successfully manage a business.
ECGRA announced today that a grant of $200,000 has been awarded to the IIE through the Microenterprise Development Program, effectively doubling its size and the number of refugee entrepreneurs it can help. The program was established in 2016 with the support of federal funding.
"On a macro-level, this is a smart economic development policy," said Mayor Joe Schember. "On a human-level, expanding the program in partnership with the International Institute, is a terrific way for ECGRA to continue its commitment to ensuring our local share of gaming revenue is reaching into our neighborhoods, our homes, and the lives of our residents."
"Working with ECGRA will enable new opportunities for immigrants to contribute to the growth of business in Erie," said Dylanna Grasinger, Director of IIE. "Immigrants built what we know as Erie and immigrants will be part of the future of Erie as well."
For more information on the IIE Microenterprise Program for refugees and immigrants in Erie, contact Dylanna Graysinger, Director or Bassam Dabbah, Program Coordinator at 814-452-3935.
