EDA reports grant opportunities and program updates, including Just Transition and homeowner rehab grant windows

Brian, the EDA executive director, told the board the EDA is preparing applications and program work in several areas. He said the Just Transition Fund (for coal-transitioning communities) opened a grant round and that the EDA will submit a proposal in June; speakers described the anticipated grant range as roughly $50,000–$300,000. He also noted Minnesota Housing’s community stabilization grant window will open mid-May with applications due mid-June and said the county’s homeowner rehab loan program is well-positioned for that opportunity.

On workforce development, Brian said the EDA is coordinating with partners (DEED and CMJTS) to use an annual student survey to inform workforce strategy and to help retain youth in local career paths. He reported ongoing marketing efforts (billboards with >500,000 impressions over two months) and local media outreach (radio appearances) intended to raise visibility for EDA programs.

Brian said the EDA has used about $35,000 from its housing trust fund on rehab loans so far and that interest in the homeowner rehab program is increasing as word spreads. He suggested the board will see a grant application in June for additional funding to continue and scale the rehab program.

What’s next: The EDA will present a budget at the June meeting, bring a grant application for board consideration, and update the board on strategic-plan items later in the summer.