The U.S. Economic Development Administration is currently accepting Phase One applications for the Distressed Areas Recompete Pilot Program. Authorized through the CHIPS and Science Act, the Recompete Pilot Program will invest $200 million through two phases of funding for economic and workforce development activities in persistently distressed communities. Eligible applicants, including nonprofit cooperative development organizations in cooperation with state or local governments, must submit an application by 11:59 EDT on October 5, 2023.
The Recompete Pilot Program will provide funding in two phases, strategy development and implementation grants, to invest in eligible communities identified through this map. Nonprofit cooperative development organizations may only apply for funding if they are acting in cooperation with a state, local, tribal, or territorial government entity. There is no match requirement for the Recompete Pilot Program. To see the full list of eligible entities, view this Notice of Funding Opportunity.
Strategy Development Grants through Phase One may be used for activities including to create economic development plans, identify or implement regional strategies to address high prime-age employment gaps, form a workforce development strategy, and foster regional partnerships. To receive funding through the Recompete Pilot program, all applicants must submit a Phase One. Implementation Grants through Phase Two are intended to be flexible and can be used for workforce development, business and entrepreneur development, infrastructure, and technical assistance.
For more information on the Recompete Pilot Program, view this FAQ page or email recompete@eda.gov. If you are interested in learning more about NCBA CLUSA’s Advocacy work or if your organization is interested in applying for the Recompete Pilot Program, email Aaliyah Nedd, NCBA CLUSA’s Director of Government Relations, at anedd@ncba.coop.