Congressman Cohen Secures Funding Recommendations for Community Projects

MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that his first two Community Projects have been recommended for funding by Appropriations subcommittees.

The 901 Entrepreneurs Program supports startup small businesses and connects them with a network of economic development agencies in an effort to assure success and improve the overall Memphis economy. The program was recommended for funding at Congressman Cohen's requested level: $673,332.

The Lifeline to Success Program would fund a demonstration project for ex-offenders reentering society. It began in 2009 to help people with aggravated felony records transition back into society, and it also supports individuals who have been out and faced challenges with getting their lives settled. Since that date, the organization has worked with1,790 people with aggravated felony records and fewer than 20 have returned to prison on new charges. This program was also recommended for funding at Congressman Cohen's requested level: $500,000.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

"Investment in economic development through entrepreneurship is critical to achieving growth at individual, local, and regional levels. Startups need support to get off the ground and they in turn can grow into thriving business that create jobs and strengthen the Memphis economy. Lifeline to Success has proven to be a model re-entry program and will help ex-offenders get back on their feet, as well as reduce recidivism. Both of these Community Projects were recommended to receive funding at the level I requested and will improve the lives of those they touch."

The Appropriations bills still have to be voted upon in the House and remain in the final FY23 funding bills. In March 2022, Congressman Cohen secured more than $11.7 million for ten Community Projects in the 2022 Fiscal Year appropriations process.

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