Two Yuma businesses receive economic development grants

For the third year in a row, Yuma is receiving the lion's share of funding awarded by the Arizona Commerce Authority through its Rural Economic Development Grant Program.

The program helps organizations within rural communities initiate and sustain projects that support economic development through job growth and capital investment.

Together, Datepac and Convey Health Solutions (formerly known as NationsHealth) have been awarded $415,000 dollars of the total $1.5 million grant program for 2013.

“When you add the two companies together, Yuma received the most of any rural county,” said Julie Engel, president and CEO of Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation.

The two Yuma businesses were among 14 recipients of this year's grants that are projected to produce hundreds of new jobs in Yuma and other rural communities around Arizona.

“Fostering job creation and investment in rural Arizona ensures business formation and growth in every region of the state,” said Gov. Jan Brewer. “A true statewide approach is vital to a strong economy for all of Arizona.”

Convey Health Solutions received a grant of $240,000 to help fund tenant improvements to the permanent site for its call center in Yuma that will be located in the former Target building at 732 W. 32nd St. Through an agreement with Yuma Regional Medical Center, the call center will occupy 40,000 square feet of the building. The hospital, which recently purchased the property, will use the remainder for storage of medical supplies, equipment and records.

Last year it was awarded $60,000, resulting in five new full-time employees.

Also last year, Insultech: Thermal and Acoustical Insulation Company received a $460,000 grant, creating 50 new jobs.

During the first round of grants in 2011, Johnson Controls was awarded $100,000 for an expansion project, adding 50 new jobs, and Rolle Airfield was awarded $290,060 for an expansion that created 15 construction jobs.

“The grant program is a powerful tool for GYEDC,” Engel said, noting that the grants aren't just for new companies.

“They're going for expansion, retention and attraction,” she said. “It's money from an outside source with a number of jobs created as a result ... good paying jobs with benefits for year-round employees.”