EDA Grants

With the economy the way it is we are trying to get revenue through a variety of means. Taxation, for good reason, is not too popular, and state-shares will significantly decrease-- so local governments, out of necessity turn to other sources of revenue. Besides the good ol' stimulus package, we are researching how to get grant monies from the EDA. The EDA (Economic Development Administration) disperses grant money to cities who are trying to innovate and become more economically sustainable. The EDA's mission: "To lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy." I'm not too sure what all "agenda" entails. I'm too afraid to ask.

The City of Phoenix is currently eligible for three grants-- one of which just came out very recently. The "University Center Economic Development Program" disperses money to a university, or conglomerate of universities, for educational development. For example, Gateway Community College was awarded a 3 million dollar telescope. For DDO, we thought this could apply for a variety of programs, such as the ASU/UA nursing program, or some of the bio-tech schools, and so on. Furthermore, we (DDO) would be able to apply in behalf of ASU. The Application deadline is April 26. Another grant opportunity is the "Economic Development Assistance Programs" which is an open application (you can apply anytime) and helps municipalities/cities with general economic development. A new one just came out (no doubt as part of the whole stimulus deal) labeled "EDA's American Recovery Program." Hopefully, DDO will be able to get some grants! Some of the other grants, such as Disaster Relief (which has a substantial amount of money tied to it) we do not qualify for.