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Drive innovation, build research capacity, grow professional workforce opportunities, amplify economic prosperity. Tarleton State University leads the pack at these thanks to new federal funding announced Monday.

A grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration will enable Tarleton State to operate as an EDA University Center — the only one in North Central Texas and one of just 73 nationwide. In addition to $650,000 in EDA funding, regional partners are matching the grant in-kind for a total $1.3 million over five years

This news comes on the heels of a National Science Foundation grant just shy of $100,000 to host a two-day GRANTED conference. Emerging and established research institutions from across the country will share best practices and form multi-institutional collaborations to strengthen the nation’s research enterprise.

“To be selected as the only EDA Center in our region is remarkable,” said Tarleton State President James Hurley, “and the support of area entrepreneurs proves our reputation as a champion for public good. Together, we’re creating an exceptional quality of life.”

Dr. Rupa Iyer, Vice President for the Division of Research, Innovation and Economic Development, is leading both initiatives.

“With backing from area governments and nonprofits, Tarleton State is destined to be a hub for research-based economic development, entrepreneurship and resilience,” she said. “Everyone who calls North Central Texas home will benefit.”

Collaborators include the North Central Texas Economic Development District, the Texas Small Business Development Center, the Heart of Texas Economic Development District, TechFW, HSC Next, Work Force Solutions, Stephenville, the Stephenville Economic Development Corp. and the Stephenville Chamber of Commerce.