[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 13, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E179-E180]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CONGRATULATING THE METROPOLITAN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KEITH ELLISON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 13, 2018

  Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 
Metropolitan Economic Development Association on its recognition as the 
top minority business developer by the United States Department of 
Commerce.
   Over the past 45 years, MEDA has provided assistance to more than 
20,000 businesses owned by people of color. MEDA has worked to break 
down the barriers that these entrepreneurs face in building futures for 
themselves, their families, and their businesses. MEDA has helped 
establish more than 1,400 jobs in the Twin Cities. As a result of its 
tireless dedication and wealth of services, this is the second 
consecutive year that MEDA has received the commendation of top 
minority business developer from the U.S. Commerce Department.
   Since MEDA launched their loan program in 1995, they have fulfilled 
a major need for minority entrepreneurs who have sustainable

[[Page E180]]

businesses, but fall short of traditional lending standards. With 
minority owned businesses being the fastest growing segment in 
Minnesota's economy, MEDA's services have helped create jobs and 
generate increased economic activity.
   MEDA's current president and CEO, Gary Cunningham, has used his 
experience in the human services field to reinforce MEDA's mission of 
serving the underserved. Under Gary's leadership, MEDA has continued to 
expand their loan fund and gain support from local companies in helping 
minority owned businesses succeed. Gary has focused his career on 
making a difference for low income people through his various 
leadership positions in organizations like Northpoint Health and 
Wellness center and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 
Development, the Metropolitan Council, and Hennepin County. His undying 
commitment to public service and the common good is evident from his 
career of notable accomplishments.
   MEDA has grown to be an everlasting community asset and a reliable 
institution for entrepreneurs of color looking to start up or expand a 
business. MEDA is critical fuel for the economic engine that drives our 
state. I would like to commend MEDA for this well-deserved recognition, 
and looking forward to their future accomplishments.

                          ____________________