Planning Programs for Economic Development Districts, Indian Tribes and Redevelopment Areas

Agency: Economic Development Administration

Program: Planning Programs for Economic Development Districts, Indian Tribes and Redevelopment Areas

Program Description: Grants support the formulation and implementation of economic development programs designed to create or retain full-time permanent jobs and income for the unemployed and under-employed in areas of economic distress. Planning grants for administrative expenses are awarded to establish and implement effective economic development programs at local and multi-jurisdictional levels. Eligible activities include the preparation and continuation of an Overall Economic Development Program (OEDP) and planning, and implementation and technical assistance services to communities and local governments within the organization’s jurisdiction. Economic distress of the area, performance of previously funded grantees, and involvement of the local leadership in economic development activities are issues considered in the selection process. Priority consideration goes to currently funded grantees.

Eligible Communities: The following are eligible to apply: Economic Development Districts; Redevelopment Areas; Indian tribes; organizations representing redevelopment areas or multiple Indian tribes; commonwealths; and territories.

Funding Information: Assistance is normally provided for a period of 12 months, for up to 75% of the total project cost (Indian tribes, 100%). EDA awards grants only and considers the unemployment in an area. EDA gives priority to projects designated as high priority by local economic development agencies. In addition, projects must result in job creation. Funds are available on a reimbursable basis upon approval. For technical assistance and planning projects, funds are available immediately or as soon as the work begins. For construction projects, funds are usually not disbursed until all construction contracts are awarded.

Timelines: EDA is funded on the basis of federal fiscal year that runs October 1 to September 30. EDA is open for preapplications year-round. The EDA field representative will invite a preapplication for a project that seems to have a good chance of being successful. The preapplication is then submitted to the EDA regional office where a project review committee decides whether or not to invite a final application. After the final application is completely reviewed, the regional director makes the final decision. Most projects that submit a final application are approved for funding. The entire process from preapplication to final decision can take from three months (rare) to a year or more. The process can be lengthy because (1) EDA stops considering preapplications when spending limits for the fiscal year are complete, and (2) there are always numerous projects for the small staff to review.

Contact: Anne Berblinger Deena Sosson

US Dept. of Commerce — EDA US Dept. of Commerce - EDA

Suite 244, One World Trade Center 801 I Street, Suite 411

121 SW Salem Street Sacramento, CA 95814

Portland, OR 97204 Phn (916)498-5285

Phn (503)326-3078 Fax (916)498:5286

Fax (503)326:6351 Int www.doc.gov/eda/