For Immediate Release

January 14, 2020

Contact:                      Heather Stebbings, Director of Communications

360.823.5296 direct

360.518.8590 cell

Port of Vancouver USA establishes new community fund program

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA has established a new community fund program to support projects and programs that align with the port’s mission of trade promotion, tourism generation, economic development and workforce development.

The port has budgeted $5,000 for the inaugural year of the program.  Through a competitive application process, the port will award funds to one or more projects that meet program goals and are located within port district boundaries.

“Over the years, the port has received requests from school groups and others to help with educational and development programs, but we have never had a mechanism to provide assistance,” said Ryan Hart, Chief External Affairs Officer.  “We hope this new program will allow some very deserving projects in our community to move forward and we’re excited to see what kind of applications we receive.” 

The program overview and application are currently available on the port’s website and submittals are due by February 7, 2020.  The port plans to announce award recipients no later than February 28, 2020.  Successful applications have one year from the date of the award to spend the funds.  At the end of the 2020/2021 program year, staff will assess the program and its effectiveness and may request additional program funding for future years. 

– POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.