Duncan Hosts Federal Funding Conference

For Immediate Release

September 12, 2005

Knoxville, Tenn. – Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr., today hosted an information session for elected, non-profit, and business leaders across the Second District seeking federal funds and technical guidance. 

The conference, which the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) cosponsored, brought representatives from 11 federal agencies to Knoxville to make presentations regarding assistance available through the federal government and field questions from those attending.

The Departments of Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, Commerce, Defense, and Justice each sent participants to the event.

The Appalachian Regional Commission, TVA, the Small Business Administration, and the Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives took part in the day’s activities as well.

Tennessee Commissioner of Transportation Gerald Nicely was also on hand to discuss the highway bill recently signed by President Bush.  As a senior member of the House Transportation Committee, Duncan directed $65.5 million to priority projects throughout the Second District.

“I want to thank TVA and the many speakers who took the time to attend this conference for making it a great success,” Duncan said.  “The federal government offers grants and technical assistance for nearly every purpose, and I believe this event will help East Tennesseans bring more of their tax dollars back to our local communities.”

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