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Economic Development

The Economic Development Department serves as an extension of local governments and development organizations, assisting with financing projects related to infrastructure, industrial expansions, tourism, recreation and capacity building. Commonly pursued funding sources include the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), the Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). 

 

Additionally, the Department develops and updates the regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) through a planning process developed with public and private sector participation. GMRC’s team of Economic Development professionals are experts in problem solving, packaging complex financing projects, administering federal grant awards and engaging communities.

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Patrick Larson, Economic Development Director

770-538-2611

plarson@gmrc.ga.gov

Laurin Yoder, Senior Project Manager

770-538-2613

lyoder@gmrc.ga.gov

Maggie Smith, Project Manager

770-538-2610

msmith@gmrc.ga.gov

Ashley Russell, Grant Administrator

770-538-2612

arussell@gmrc.ga.gov

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