Building A Stronger And More Equitable Economy: A Conversation With Alejandra Y. Castillo, Assistant Secretary Of The U.S. Economic Development Administration

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Alejandra Y. Castillo | Assistant Secretary Of The U.S. Economic Development Administration

Building A Stronger And More Equitable Economy: A Conversation With Alejandra Y. Castillo, Assistant Secretary Of The U.S. Economic Development Administration

Since 1965, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has been tasked with building the foundation for job creation and spurring industrial and commercial growth.

Most recently, as part of the implementation of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, the EDA awarded $1 billion in Build Back Better grants for rebuilding regional economies, promoting equitable recovery, and creating jobs. These grantees will invest in the future of their communities across a number of industries.

As Assistant Secretary of the EDA, Alejandra Castillo leads all of these efforts. A first-generation American of Dominican descent, she previously served as Chief Executive Officer of YWCA USA, and as National Director of the Minority Business Development Agency during the Obama administration.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Castillo and am grateful to her for taking the time to speak with me. Below is our discussion.

Rhett Buttle: Tell us how you came to the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and why you decided to rejoin public service?

Alejandra Castillo: When the Biden-Harris administration took office last year, I was honored to be asked to resume my service to the nation in the role of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. Whether working in the public or private sector in Washington, I have always focused on creating equitable and inclusive opportunities for all Americans.

In this new role, I am working to further advance the President’s economic agenda as we invest in America’s communities. Given the impact of the pandemic on our nation, supporting communities across America was an urgent priority. I am honored to return to the Department of Commerce where I previously served as the National Director of the Minority Business Development Agency, helping minority business enterprises gain access to capital, contracts, and business opportunities.

Original source can be found here.

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