# What the University Centers for Growth, Development, Prosperity Act Does

This bill creates a new program that gives federal money to universities across the country to help boost local economic development and job creation. The government would fund one university center in each state, with each center receiving between $500,000 and $1 million per year. These centers would serve as hubs where universities work with local businesses, government agencies, and other organizations to strengthen their region's economy.

The centers would do several practical things to help communities grow. They'd provide free advice and technical assistance to local businesses looking to expand or improve their operations. They'd help identify which industries and skills are most important in their region and connect businesses with resources to develop those areas. They'd also work with other government programs and organizations—like manufacturing extension centers and minority business development agencies—to make sure everyone's efforts are coordinated and not duplicated. Additionally, these centers would help communities understand their economic strengths and weaknesses through research and data analysis, which could guide future development decisions.

The bill specifically prioritizes funding historically Black colleges and universities, tribal colleges, Hispanic-serving institutions, and other minority-serving schools. This means these types of institutions would be first in line to receive the funding and become university centers in their states. For everyday people, this could mean better access to business support services in their communities, more job opportunities as local businesses grow with university help, and potentially stronger regional economies that keep young people from having to move away to find good jobs.

University Centers for Growth, Development, Prosperity (GDP) Act

Rep. Aguilar, Pete [D-CA-33]

University Centers for Growth, Development, Prosperity (GDP) Act This bill requires the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to establish in each state a university center at an institution of higher education that must, to the extent possible, collaborate with economic development districts, provide technical assistance and business development services to area businesses, and conduct research and analysis relating to economic development. In selecting such centers, the EDA must prioritize Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and other minority-serving institutions.