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22 Recompete Pilot Program finalists named
The U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) recently announced the 22 finalists of the Distressed Area Recompete Pilot Program (Recompete) and 24 Strategy Development Grants. Recompete, authorized through the CHIPS and Science Act, targets the hardest-hit and most economically distressed areas of the country, specifically ones where prime-age (25-54 years) employment is significantly lower than the national average. Projects that are ultimately selected for funding connect workers to good jobs in geographically diverse and persistently distressed communities nationwide. The finalists will now submit proposals for $20-50 million. The Strategy Development Grants will be used to help communities significantly increase local coordination and planning activities. Such development could make selected grantees more competitive for future Recompete funding.
The Recompete finalists are located across 20 states and territories and represent a cross section of urban and rural regions. According to a press release from EDA, of the 22 finalists, seven are focused exclusively on rural American communities, and five are led by or involve tribal organizations as primary partners. Additionally, seven finalists’ plans involve labor organizations as part of their proposed investments.
The 24 Strategy Development Grants went to projects in 19 states and Puerto Rico.
In addition to announcing the Phase 1 finalists, the Department of Commerce launched the Recompete Pilot Program Phase 2 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Together, the 22 Phase 1 Finalists represent nearly $800 million in preliminary funding requests that will be refined in their Phase 2 applications. Phase 2 awards can range from $20-$50 million. They can support various implementation activities across workforce development, business and entrepreneur development, infrastructure, and additional planning, predevelopment, or technical assistance.
The program has received $200 million in funding for the finalists and Strategy Development Grants. A complete list of the 2023 Recompete Pilot Program Finalists and Strategy Development Grant Recipients and links to a description of each program can be found here.
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