Delta Compass Receives Grant to Drive Economic Development in the Mississippi and Arkansas Delta

Nov 13, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: [Hillary Boggs], [hboggs@wceams.com]

 

Delta Compass Receives Grant to Drive Economic Development in the Mississippi and Arkansas Delta

[Greenville, Mississippi] – November 13, 2024, Delta Compass’ CEO, Justin Archer Burch, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Walton Family Foundation to support its groundbreaking initiatives in advancing economic recruitment in the Mississippi and Arkansas Delta. This funding will be instrumental in fostering economic inclusion and driving long-term growth in these 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. These initiatives are specifically designed to attract mid to large 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 Justin 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. 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.

About Delta Compass

Delta Compass is a new 501(c)(3) economic development and inclusion intermediary serving the Arkansas and Mississippi Delta. A first of its kind for the region, Delta Compass is setting a new strategic direction for the region. By aligning a network of local, regional, and national organizations, we work together to ensure the Mississippi River Delta collaborates towards economic and community prosperity by creating an inclusive economy, strong communities, and resilient people. Our mission is to ensure that the Mississippi River Delta is a viable 21st century economy by promoting the region as a best practice for work, play, and innovation. Learn more at www.deltacompass.org.