In a press release last week, the funds were announced that they will be used to fund the Revolving Loan Fund, a program that supports small business owners and entrepreneurs in the area. The organization estimates that the project will create 168 jobs, keep 59 jobs, and stimulate $4.8 million of private investment. Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Commerce, stated that the Department of Commerce and its Bureaus had been diligently working to help communities throughout the country that have been affected by natural disasters. “This Revolving Loan Fund is critical support for businesses throughout Mississippi, empowering local entrepreneurs everywhere.” According to its website, the Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District, which supports development and other services in 15 Southern Mississippi counties and 38 municipalities, it was established by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. The grant was awarded by the Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration. It is made from funds that are part of the federal budget for disaster aid.