DENVER, CO, Sept. 11, 2014 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce's Market Development Cooperator Program will be providing the American Water Works Association (AWWA) a funding award totaling nearly $300,000 to better help facilitate U.S. water sector exports. The award is expected to generate an estimated $14 million in U.S. exports over three years.
"This award from the U.S. Department of Commerce empowers AWWA to help U.S. water sector manufacturers export their products and services to overseas markets," said AWWA Director of Sales Jane Johnson. "It's an important step forward as we fulfill our vision of a better world through better water."
AWWA is among eight non-profit organizations receiving a total of $2.2 million in awards. The Department of Commerce provides the awards to support projects aimed at increasing U.S. exports, creating jobs and strengthening America's global competitiveness.
"Nearly one-third of America's economic growth since mid-2009 has been driven by exports. More and more industry groups, like AWWA, are recognizing the importance of exporting," said U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Stefan M. Selig.
"Since 2009, the number of jobs supported by exports has grown by 1.6 million to more than 11.3 million -- the highest in 20 years," he said. "Our Market Development Cooperator Program awards to organizations like AWWA are part of President Obama's government-wide strategy to strengthen America's economy by increasing exports."
See also:
"Video: International Trade and Investment Trends"
"Six-point plan proposed to rebuild U.S. infrastructure, revive country's competitiveness"
About AWWA
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life. For more information, visit www.awwa.org.
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