GCED Staff

July 8, 2026

Graves County Economic Development (GCED), a nonprofit organization that works to generate economic growth in Mayfield and Graves County, today announced it has received a $20,000 grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation. The funding will be used to support GCED in its mission to improve the quality of life for area residents by helping retain and expand existing business and industry and attract companies that invest in the community and provide good jobs.

“The generous funding from the U.S. Bank Foundation plays an important role in helping us accomplish our economic growth and development goals. We’re grateful for their support as we strive to provide the infrastructure, facilities, and well-trained workforce necessary to meet the needs of business and industry,” said GCED President Jason Lemle.

Advanced manufacturing, consumer products, food processing, industrial maintenance, and lumber are sectors targeted by GCED for continuing growth. GCED also works closely with local education and training partners to provide innovative programs that help students prepare to succeed in the workplace and benefit from the economic opportunities our community has to offer.

“Business and industry are the economic backbone of successful communities and a skilled and resilient workforce benefits everyone,” said Jeff Mills, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank. “We’re proud to work with organizations like GCED to help foster an environment where businesses can grow and succeed and provide jobs that help families thrive.”

U.S. Bank is committed to powering human potential and creating lasting change in communities. The bank does this through the Community Possible platform, including philanthropy and team member volunteerism.

About Graves County Economic Development

Founded in 1981, Graves County Economic Development has become the driving force behind business expansion and development opportunities in the community. GCED continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to Graves County. We strive to make our community a better place to work, live and raise a family.

About U.S. Bancorp

Headquartered in Minneapolis, U.S. Bancorp is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association, the fifth-largest commercial bank in the United States. Our three major business lines serve 15 million clients globally, and our team of nearly 70,000 people invest our hearts and minds to power human potential every day. Ranked 110th on the Fortune 500, we are deeply respected for our culture and long-term stewardship and admired for our diversified business mix and product capabilities.