Committee backs researching a shared grant-writer program with chamber and school

The New London Economic Development Committee voted to pursue research into a shared grant-writer or grant-writing consultant to be partnered between the city, the chamber and the school district.

Chad described earlier discussions with a grant-writer and outside jurisdictions and asked whether the committee wanted staff to continue investigating a collaborative model. Committee members noted that COVID-era funding streams (ARPA and similar) were easing and that grant competitions may become more competitive. ‘‘When he first started out, there seemed to be a lot more grant money available because of COVID funds… and it seems like that's kinda coming to an end,’’ one member said while urging caution about long-term operational costs tied to grants.

Members discussed options including hiring a consultant for targeted technical grants (for example, STP urban or engineering-heavy grants) versus a pooled, ongoing grant-writer position. The Fox Cities Community Foundation reportedly signaled interest in potential seed funding for an initial year; the chamber representative said the chamber could pursue nonprofit status if that would make grant application processes easier.

The committee approved a motion directing staff to research the shared grant-writer option and coordinate with the chamber and school board to develop a proposal, with the understanding that some grants will require local matching or operational funding if awarded.

Why it matters: members said a coordinated grant-writing effort could help New London identify funding streams for infrastructure and downtown projects but emphasized that applying successfully does not always reduce local costs because many grants require matching or ongoing operational expenses.

Next steps: staff will consult with the chamber and the school board and return to the committee with a recommended scope, potential funding sources, and an estimated budget for the first year.