Federal Register, Volume 60 Issue 49 (Tuesday, March 14, 1995)

[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 49 (Tuesday, March 14, 1995)]
[Notices]
[Pages 13866-13883]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-6261]

[[Page 13865]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part IX

Department of Commerce

_______________________________________________________________________

Economic Development Administration

_______________________________________________________________________

Grants and Cooperative Agreements; Availability, Etc.: Economic
Development Assistance Programs; Notice

Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 49 / Tuesday, March 14, 1995 /
Notices
[[Page 13866]]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Economic Development Administration
[Docket No. 950302065-5065-01]

Economic Development Assistance Programs--Availability of Funds

AGENCY: Economic Development Administration (EDA), Department of
Commerce (DoC).

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Economic Development Administration (EDA) announces its
policies and application procedures for funds available in fiscal year
1995, as described in Public Law 103-317, Departments of Commerce,
Justice, State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations, to
support projects designed to alleviate conditions of substantial and
persistent unemployment and underemployment in economically-distressed
areas and regions of the Nation and to address economic dislocations
resulting from sudden, severe job losses. The purpose of this
announcement is to communicate to potential applicants for EDA funds
the policies and procedures that will be used to administer the
Agency's programs during fiscal year 1995.

DATES: This announcement is effective for applications considered for
fiscal year 1995. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis and
will be processed as funds are available. Normally, two months are
required for a final decision after the receipt of a completed
application that meets all EDA requirements.

ADDRESSES: Interested parties should contact the EDA office in their
area (see Section XII).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: See information at the end of each
program section and Section XII for the EDA regional office and
Economic Development Representative for the area.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. General Policies

EDA encourages certain types of project applications such as those
proposals having the greatest potential to benefit areas experiencing
or threatened with substantial economic distress. EDA is particularly
interested in projects located in authorized and designated enterprise
zones. Distress may exist in a variety of forms, including high levels
of unemployment, low income levels, large concentrations of low income
families, significant decline in per capita employment, substantial
loss of population because of the lack of employment opportunities,
large numbers (or high rates) of business failures, sudden major
layoffs or plant closures, and reduced tax bases.
Potential applicants are responsible for demonstrating to EDA,
through the provision of statistics and other appropriate information,
the nature and level of the distress their efforts are intended to
alleviate. In the absence of evidence of high levels of distress, EDA
funding is unlikely. In considering proposals to benefit severely
distressed areas, EDA will give consideration to those that address the
needs of both rural and urban communities, particularly aid that is
directed toward the economic diversification of such areas.
During FY 1995, EDA will place a special emphasis on assisting
projects that focus on: (1) Exports; (2) entrepreneurship; (3)
telecommunications; and (4) technology initiatives including
innovation, staying competitive in high value markets (well paying
quality jobs), transfer, and commercialization, to alleviate conditions
of substantial and persistent unemployment and underemployment in
economically-distressed areas and regions, through the provision of
grants for Public Works and Development Facilities, Technical
Assistance, Economic Development Planning, Research and Evaluation, and
Economic Adjustment Assistance.
EDA recognizes that small communities experience impediments to
economic development other than the traditional inadequacies of
existing water, sewer and roadway systems; therefore, in fiscal year
1995, EDA will give consideration to projects that will assist an area
to overcome a special development or infrastructure problem that is
preventing employment growth and economic development from taking
place. Such projects may involve, but are not limited to, activities
designed to enhance the expansion of the service sector of the economy
when that sector is deemed more growth oriented than the traditional
industrial sector, or innovative projects designed for the development
of publicly-owned telecommunications infrastructure when it can be
demonstrated that such a project is needed to foster productivity or
enhance economic growth within an EDA-eligible area. Such proposals
must be appropriately scaled and provide substantial and direct benefit
to the local economy or otherwise enhance the economic prosperity of
the area. EDA will consider providing assistance to demonstration type
projects that are especially creative from an economic development
standpoint and that leverage a substantial amount of nonfederal
resources.
Eligible applicants that can demonstrate substantial local support
for proposed projects have a better chance to receive EDA assistance.
Proposals that do not provide evidence of strong support from the
governmental entities in which the proposed project is located are less
likely to receive EDA assistance. Support can be demonstrated by the
commitment of funds necessary to finance all or part of the nonfederal
share.
EDA expects those responsible for developing and managing projects
to maximize the impact of the public funds by implementing projects as
thoroughly and expeditiously as possible. In the case of projects
involving construction, EDA expects construction to be initiated and
completed in a timely manner. Applicants are expected to anticipate
predictable delays such as those caused by normal weather conditions,
permits and approvals, legal complications, community disputes, land
acquisition, etc., and account for them in developing project
schedules. Projects which by their nature are likely to encounter
significant delays are less likely to be considered for funding.
Projects that experience unreasonable delays following EDA approval may
be terminated and the funds deobligated. These policies are consistent
with EDA's objective of supporting activities that can begin to benefit
local economies as soon as possible, thereby meeting the pressing
development needs identified by project applicants.
Generally, EDA funding will not be used directly or indirectly to
assist employers who transfer one or more jobs from one commuting area
to another. EDA nonrelocation requirements (13 CFR 309.3) apply to all
grants involving construction, rehabilitation or repair of real estate
under Titles I, IV, IX, and Section 301(f) of the Public Works and
Economic Development Act of 1965 (Pub. L. 89-136, 42 U.S.C. 3121-
3246h), as amended and grants under Title IX for any purpose (including
Revolving Loan Funds).
No award of Federal funds will be made to an applicant who has an
outstanding delinquent Federal debt until either:
1. The delinquent account is paid in full;
2. A negotiated repayment schedule is established and at least one
payment is received, or
3. Other arrangements satisfactory to DoC are made. [[Page 13867]]
Applicants may be subject to a pre-award accounting system survey
by the Department of Commerce's Office of Inspector General, and fund
recipients may be subject to audits or other inspections by the same
office.
Applicants eligible for additional grant assistance because of
membership in an economic development district must be active
participants in the district's economic development planning process.
EDA will evaluate applications for conformance with published
statutory, regulatory, and policy requirements. Applications proposed
for funding under these programs are subject to the requirements of
Executive Order 12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal
Programs.''
EDA will not approve projects that involve actual or potential
conflict-of-interest situations. If EDA identifies or suspects a
possible conflict-of-interest situation, or an appearance of such,
application processing and/or the grant award may be suspended and the
burden will be on the applicant/grantee to take appropriate steps to
eliminate the perception or actual conflict of interest before the
application processing or award is resumed.
Recipients must agree that no funds made available by EDA will be
used, directly or indirectly, for paying attorneys' or consultants'
fees in connection with securing awards made by the Government, such as
preparation of the application. However, attorneys' and consultants'
fees incurred for meeting award requirements, such as conducting a
title search or preparing plans and specifications, may be eligible
project costs and may be paid out of funds made available by EDA, if
such costs are otherwise eligible.
The total dollar amount of the indirect costs proposed in an
application under any EDA programs must not exceed the indirect cost
rate negotiated and approved by a cognizant Federal agency prior to the
proposed effective date of the award or 100 percent of the total
proposed direct costs dollar amount in the application, whichever is
less.
Primary Applicant Certification--All primary applicants must submit
a completed Form CD-511, ``Certifications Regarding Debarment,
Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters; Drug-Free Workplace
Requirements and Lobbying,'' and the following explanations are hereby
provided:
a. Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension--Prospective
participants (as defined at 15 CFR Part 26, Section 105) are subject to
15 CFR Part 26, ``Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension'' and the
related section of the certification form prescribed above applies;
b. Drug-Free Workplace--Grantees (as defined at 15 CFR Part 26,
Section 605) are subject to 15 CFR Part 26, Subpart F, ``Governmentwide
Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants)'' and the related section
of the certification form prescribed above applies;
c. Anti-Lobbying--Persons (as defined at 15 CFR Part 28, Section
105) are subject to the lobbying provisions of 31 U.S.C. 1352,
``Limitation on use of appropriated funds to influence certain Federal
contracting and financial transactions,'' and the lobbying section of
the certification form which applies to applications/bids for grants,
cooperative agreements, and contracts for more than $100,000, and loans
and loan guarantees for more than $150,000, or the single family
maximum mortgage limit for affected programs, whichever is greater; and
d. Anti-Lobbying Disclosures--Any applicant that has paid or will
pay for lobbying using any funds must submit an SF-LLL, ``Disclosure of
Lobbying Activities,'' as required under 15 CFR Part 28, Appendix B.
Recipients shall require applicants/bidders for subgrants,
contracts, subcontracts, or other lower tier covered transactions at
any tier under the award to submit, if applicable, a completed Form CD-
512, ``Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility
and Voluntary Exclusion-Lower Tier Covered Transactions and Lobbying''
and disclosure form, SF-LLL, ``Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.''
Form CD-512 is intended for the use of recipients and should not be
transmitted to the Department. SF-LLL submitted by any tier recipient
or subrecipient should be submitted to DoC in accordance with the
instructions contained in the award document.
Buy American-Made Equipment or Products--Applicants are hereby
notified that they will be encouraged, to the greatest extent
practicable to purchase American-made equipment and products with
funding provided under these programs in accordance with Congressional
intent as set forth in the resolution contained in Public Law 103-317,
Sections 607 (a) and (b).
The implementing regulations of the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) require EDA to provide public notice of the availability of
project specific environmental documents such as environmental impact
statements, environmental assessments, findings of no significant
impact, records of decision etc., to the affected public as specified
in 40 CFR 1506.6(b).
Depending on the project location, environmental information
concerning specific projects can be obtained from the Regional
Environmental Officer (REO) in the appropriate EDA regional office
listed in Section XII or from Dr. Frank Monteferrante, Environmental
Branch, Compliance Review Division, EDA, U.S. Department of Commerce,
Washington, DC 20230, (202) 482-4208.
Applicants should be aware that a false statement on the
application is grounds for denial of the application or termination of
the grant award and grounds for possible punishment by a fine or
imprisonment as provided in 18 U.S.C. 1001 and 42 U.S.C. 3220.
All nonprofit and for-profit applicants are subject to a name check
review process. Name checks are intended to reveal if any key
individuals associated with the applicant have been convicted of, or
are presently facing, criminal charges such as fraud, theft, perjury,
or other matters which significantly reflect on the applicant's
management, honesty or financial integrity.

Application Procedures

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis. Processing time
for applications will depend upon the completeness of the information
and supporting documents provided in the application at the time of
submission. Applications that require additional information from
applicants or other sources will not be processed further pending
correction of deficiencies, and the official application receipt dates
will be adjusted accordingly. Normally, two months are required for a
final decision after the receipt of a completed application that meets
all EDA requirements. Please see the specific program sections of this
Notice for appropriate preapplication and application procedures.
Proponents should contact the appropriate EDR (see Section XII) to
obtain the necessary application forms.
An invitation to submit an application does not assure EDA funding.
Factors that will be considered in selecting proposals include if and
to what extent the project meets the evaluation criteria and ``General
Policies'' described above.
Project applications invited but not funded or denied in any fiscal
year remain eligible for funding consideration in the next fiscal year.
Applications invited and received prior to the date of this Notice will
be processed and evaluated in accordance with the project evaluation
and selection criteria published for FY 1994 and current legal
requirements. Those applications invited on or after the date of this
Notice must be consistent with [[Page 13868]] this Notice. Applicants
whose projects were invited but not submitted to EDA in FY 1994 should
contact the appropriate EDA regional office regarding the forms to be
used for FY 1995.

Selection Procedures

Generally, preapplications are reviewed by the Economic Development
Representative, the Project Review Committee and then the Regional
Director. Based on the evaluation criteria, general policies and
availability of funds, final funding decisions on all applications
under Titles I and IX and Title III, Local Technical Assistance and
Planning, are made by the Regional Directors subject to such conditions
as the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development may prescribe. All
other funding decisions are made by the Assistant Secretary for
Economic Development.
Recipients and subrecipients are subject to all Federal laws and
Federal and DoC policies, regulations, and procedures applicable to
Federal financial assistance awards.
Unsatisfactory performance under prior Federal awards may result in
an application not being considered for funding.
If an application is selected for funding, EDA has no obligation to
provide any additional future funding in connection with an award.
Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of
performance is at the total discretion of EDA.
Applicants should be aware that if they incur any costs prior to an
award being made they do so solely at their own risk of not being
reimbursed by the Government. Notwithstanding any verbal or written
assurance that may have been received, there is no obligation on the
part of EDA to cover pre-award costs.
The following material describes other requirements, policies and
procedures associated with each of EDA's programs.

II. Program: Public Works and Development Facilities Assistance

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.300 Economic Development
Grants and Loans for Public Works and Development Facilities. 11.304
Economic Development Public Works Impact Program (PWIP)) 13 CFR Part
305

Authority

Funds available under the Public Works and Development Facilities
Program are used to finance projects that contribute to the economic
development of distressed areas. This program is authorized by Titles I
and IV of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, as
amended (PWEDA), 42 U.S.C. 3131 and 42 U.S.C. 3171(a)(3).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants under this program include any state, or
political subdivision thereof, Indian tribe, the Federated States of
Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa and the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, or private or public
nonprofit organization or association representing any redevelopment
area or part thereof, provided such project is located within an
eligible EDA area that is represented by the nonprofit organization or
association.
Eligible areas, other than those designated under the Public Works
Impact Program, must have a current EDA-approved Overall Economic
Development Program (OEDP). Political entities claiming eligibility
under OEDPs developed by multicounty economic development organizations
are expected to continue to participate actively in the organization.
Further information on eligibility is available from EDA's regional
offices. Nonprofit applicants are urged to seek the cooperation and
support of units of local government and, when deemed appropriate by
EDA, to have the local government serve as co-applicant for EDA
assistance. This ensures the financial stability and continuity of the
project, in the event that the nonprofit entity finds itself in a
position of not having the financial resources to properly and
efficiently administer, operate, and maintain the EDA-assisted facility
consistent with the provisions of 13 CFR 314-Property Management
Standards.

Program Objective

The purpose of the Public Works Program is to assist communities
with the funding of public works and development facilities that
contribute to the creation or retention of private sector jobs and to
the alleviation of unemployment and underemployment. Such assistance is
designed to help communities achieve lasting improvement by stabilizing
and diversifying local economies, and improving local living conditions
and the economic development of the area. The alleviation of
unemployment and underemployment among residents of the project area is
a primary focus of this program.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $195 million are available for this program.
Grants awarded under this program generally range between $100,000 and
$1.5 million.

Funding Instrument

EDA may provide direct grants not to exceed 50 percent of the
estimated cost of the project. However, under certain circumstances
supplementary grants to augment the direct grant may be provided up to
a maximum of 80 percent of the eligible project costs. Supplementary
grant assistance to finance over 50 percent of the project costs will
be approved by EDA only for proposals in areas of high distress.
Decisions on such supplementary grant assistance will be based on the
nature of the project, the amount of fair user charges or other
revenues the project may reasonably be expected to generate, and the
relative needs of the area (see 13 CFR 305.5). But in no event will the
Federal participation exceed 80 percent of the aggregate cost of any
such project, except as authorized by section 101(c) of PWEDA of 1965,
as amended, which permits EDA to waive the nonfederal share under
certain conditions. Applicants are required to provide the local share
from acceptable sources including, but not limited to cash, local
government general obligation or revenue bonds, Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funds or balance of state awards,
Farmers Home Administration loans, and other public and private
financing, including donations.
The local share need not be in hand at the time of application,
however, the applicant must assure EDA that the funds will be available
to provide the nonfederal share of the project. The local share must
not be encumbered in any way that would preclude its use consistent
with the requirements of the grant.

Project Duration

Projects are expected to be completed in a timely manner consistent
with the nature of the project. Normally, the maximum period for any
financial assistance that is provided shall be not more than five (5)
years from date of award.

Evaluation Criteria

For both regular public works projects and Public Works Impact
Program (PWIP) projects, priority consideration will be given to those
which are the most competitive based upon the project evaluation
criteria set forth below, that best meet the needs of eligible areas,
[[Page 13869]] and that are located in areas of substantial economic
distress. Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights. Projects
will be evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below to meet the
goals described above.
A. Public Works Projects
Factors that will be taken into account in considering projects
eligible under section 101(a)(1)(A)--(C) of PWEDA, 42 U.S.C.
3131(a)(1)(A)--(C), include if and to what extent the project:
1. Improves opportunities for the successful establishment or
expansion of industrial or commercial facilities in the area where such
project will be located.
2. Is consistent with the EDA approved Overall Economic Development
Program (OEDP) for the area in which it is, or will be, located, and
has broad community support.
3. Assists in creating or retaining private sector jobs in the near
term and assists in the creation of additional long-term employment
opportunities, provided the jobs are not transferred from any other
area of the United States, and will result in a low cost-per-job in
relation to total EDA cost.
4. Benefits the long-term unemployed and members of low-income
families who are residents of the area to be served by the project.
5. Fulfills a pressing need of the area, or part thereof, in which
it will be located.
6. Is supported by significant private sector investment.
7. Has evidence of adequate local share of funds.
8. Supports developments taking place in designated empowerment
zones/enterprise communities.
9. Demonstrates that necessary permits, land acquisitions, or
options on land and rights-of-way have been or will be obtained and
that all other legal requirements of the application process have been
satisfied.
10. Maximizes the amount of local, state or other Federal funding
that is available.
11. Gives evidence of the ability to begin and complete
construction in a timely manner in accordance with a schedule to be
agreed upon by EDA and the applicant and included in the grant award.
EDA discourages the start of construction prior to grant award and
cautions that financial hardship may be experienced by applicants whose
projects are not approved. EDA will require all applicants that request
approval to proceed with construction prior to grant award to
acknowledge that they are proceeding at their own risk and without
recourse to EDA if the grant is not awarded or EDA requirements are not
met. EDA also requires that compliance with environmental regulations
be completed before construction begins. EDA's regional office must
have time to complete its ``Finding of No Significant Impact,'' and
clearances must be obtained from appropriate state and Federal
agencies. Furthermore, EDA may view the start of construction prior to
grant award as an indication that the grant funds are not essential for
the successful implementation of the project.
12. If located in an Economic Development Center (i.e., Growth
Center) that has a stable economy with little distress, includes an
employment plan that explains how new employment opportunities for
residents of nearby highly distressed redevelopment areas will be
provided.
B. Public Works Impact Program
Factors that will be considered in the evaluation of projects under
the Public Works Impact Program (PWIP) authorized by section
101(a)(1)(D) of PWEDA, 42 U.S.C. 3131(a)(1)(D), include if and to what
extent the project:
1. Directly assists in creating immediate useful work (i.e.,
construction jobs) for the unemployed and underemployed residents in
the project area;
2. Improves the economic or community environment in areas of
severe economic distress;
3. Includes a specific plan (i.e., PWIP Employment Strategy) for
hiring the unemployed and underemployed persons from the project area
to work on the construction of the project; EDA will evaluate all plans
to ensure that they contain a logical explanation of how the employment
objectives will be met;
4. Assists in providing long-term employment opportunities or other
economic benefits for the unemployed and underemployed in the project
area;
5. Primarily benefits low-income families by providing essential
community services, or satisfying a pressing public need;
6. In addition to the requirement for regular public works
projects, as contained in paragraph A 11., can begin construction
quickly (normally within 120 days after acceptance of the grant by the
applicant);
7. Has significant labor intensity, where labor intensity is the
proportion of labor costs to the total project costs.
C. Industrial Park Projects
Projects that will primarily serve an industrial park or site may
be evaluated on such additional factors as:
1. A detailed analysis of existing industrial park capacity and
utilization; occupancy rates for existing developed industrial parks
currently available within a 25-mile radius of the project site. For
cities with populations over 50,000, the prescribed area may be
determined by an analysis of industrial sites within an established
industrial area, which may be less than a 25-mile radius. Contact the
economic development representative (EDR) for the area or the
appropriate EDA regional office for guidance.
2. Commitments in writing from identified tenants to expand
existing operations or to locate in the industrial park or site.
Commitments should include a description of the industry, the number of
jobs created or saved, an implementation schedule, and the relationship
of the commitment to the requested grant assistance.
3. The existence of a documented marketing strategy and
demonstrated financial ability to market space in the industrial park
or site. Strong emphasis will be placed upon this evaluation criterion.

Construction Project Implementation

As indicated in the first section of this Notice, EDA expects
construction projects to be initiated and completed in a timely manner
and in accordance with the schedule agreed upon in the grant
documentation.
Under most circumstances, EDA will not provide additional funds to
finance cost overruns that occur during project implementation.

Proposal Submission Procedures

To establish the merits of project proposals, interested parties
should first contact the economic development representative (EDR) for
the area (see listing in Section XII). The economic development
representative for the area will provide a preapplication form (ED-
101P, OMB Control No. 0610-0011) and arrange for conferences to discuss
the proposal. EDA will evaluate proposals before inviting the
submission of an application. As previously mentioned, an invitation to
submit an application does not assure EDA funding. Proposals will be
evaluated based upon:
1. Conformance with the evaluation criteria mentioned above;
2. Merits of the proposal in addressing the economic development
needs of the eligible area; and
3. The availability of program funds.
Processing time for project proposals depends upon the completeness
of information and supporting documents provided in the preapplication
form at the time of submission. Project [[Page 13870]] proposals that
require additional information from applicants or other sources will
not be processed further until deficiencies are corrected.

Application Procedures

Following a review of project proposals, EDA will invite entities
whose projects are selected for consideration to submit applications
within 30 days after receipt of an invitation letter. The application
will include a form ED-101A, as approved by the Office of Management
and Budget Control No. 0610-0011. The demand for public works
assistance is expected to exceed available funding. The processing of
applications that cannot be recommended for approval within 60 days of
receipt in a regional office because of unresolved issues will be
suspended. Such applications may be reconsidered at a future date, but
must compete with other applications for the funds available at that
time.

Further Information

For further information contact the appropriate EDA regional office
or economic development representative for your area (see Section XII
of this Notice).

III. Program: Local Technical Assistance

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.303 Economic
Development-Technical Assistance) 13 CFR Part 307, Subpart A

Authority

Funds under the Local Technical Assistance Program are awarded to
eligible applicants to provide assistance intended to assure the
successful initiation and implementation of area, state, and regional
development efforts designed to alleviate economic distress. This
program is authorized under Section 301(a) of the Public Works and
Economic Development Act of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3151(a).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants for Local Technical Assistance grants or
cooperative agreements include public or private nonprofit national,
state, area, district, or local organizations; public and private
colleges and universities; Indian tribes, local governments, and state
agencies. In certain circumstances, applications may be considered from
other applicants such as private individuals, partnerships, firms, and
corporations.

Program Objective

The Local Technical Assistance Program is designed to help
alleviate or prevent conditions of excessive unemployment or
underemployment and problems of economically distressed populations in
rural and urban areas.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $1.5 million are available for the Local
Technical Assistance Program. It is expected that these funds will be
made available for projects serving specific local or substate areas
and also for projects whose impacts will affect multistate areas within
EDA regional office boundaries. Individual award amounts have averaged
$25,000 in recent years.

Funding Instrument

EDA will provide grants and cooperative agreements not to exceed 75
percent of the proposed project costs. Applicants are expected to
provide the remaining share, preferably in cash. The Assistant
Secretary may waive all or part of the 25 percent share of technical
assistance grants, if he/she determines that the nonfederal share is
not reasonably available because of the critical nature of the
situation requiring technical assistance or for other good cause.

Project Duration

Assistance will be for the period of time required to complete the
scope of the work. This typically does not exceed twelve months.

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights. Projects will be
evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below in order to meet
the goals described above. Evaluation criteria include whether the
local Technical Assistance proposal:
1. Produces strong evidence that the proposed project will lead to
the near-term (between one and five years) generation or retention of
private sector jobs.
2. Does not depend upon further EDA or other Federal funding
assistance to achieve results.
3. Strengthens the capability of state and local organizations and
institutions, including nonprofit development groups, to undertake and
promote effective economic development programs targeted to people and
areas of distress.
4. Stimulates significant private and nonfederal public investment
for economic development purposes, including funds from commercial
lenders, public and private pension funds and other nontraditional
sources.
5. Benefits severely distressed areas, both rural and urban
counties and communities.
6. Diversifies distressed rural and urban economies by means of
empowerment zones, enterprise communities and other strategies.
7. Demonstrates innovative approaches to stimulating economic
development in depressed areas. EDA is particularly interested in
receiving innovative proposals in the following areas:
a. Export development used as an economic development strategy;
b. Assistance to business in uses of technology; and
c. Sustainable development.
8. Is consistent with the EDA approved Overall Economic Development
Program (OEDP) for the area in which the project is located and has
been recommended by the OEDP Committee (if appropriate to the nature of
the project).
9. Presents an appropriate and clear project design.
10. Is proposed by organization or individual(s) with the capacity,
qualifications and staff necessary to undertake the intended
activities.
11. Presents a reasonable, itemized budget for the proposed
activities.
12. Involves a significant (preferably cash) contribution in excess
of minimum required from applicant or other nonfederal sources.

Pre-Application Procedures

Parties seeking support for Local Technical Assistance projects
should contact the economic development representative (EDR) for the
area to discuss their proposal. (See EDR listing in Section XII of this
announcement.)
EDA will evaluate all proposals as they are received and invite
applications for those which best satisfy the evaluation criteria. An
invitation does not, however, assure EDA funding.
Potential applicants should submit one original and two copies of a
brief and concise proposal, not to exceed 20 pages. Vita and capability
information may be appended.

Proposal Submission Procedures

Potential applicants must submit to the appropriate EDR proposals
that include:
1. A cover page giving a short descriptive project title, the name
and address of the applicant organization, the name and telephone
number of the project director, the project duration, total project
cost, the amount of EDA funds requested, and the program (Local
Technical Assistance) from which EDA funds are being requested;
[[Page 13871]]
2. A brief section indicating why the project is needed, giving its
objectives, and providing a capsule description of the project;
3. A more detailed description of the project and its methodology;
4. A work plan showing different phases of the project and their
timing;
5. A detailed budget, not to exceed one page, showing cost
breakdowns, with EDA-funded and non-EDA-funded costs presented in
separate columns and with the EDA-funded costs adding to the total
shown on the cover page;
6. Resumes for the project director and principal staff; and
7. A corporate or institutional capability statement, where
appropriate.
Parties seeking support for projects where impacts will cross EDA
regional boundaries should submit proposals to the Director, Technical
Assistance and Research Division, Economic Development Administration,
Room 7315, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230.
Individuals or organizations located outside the Washington, DC,
metropolitan area should submit a copy of the letter transmitting their
proposal to Washington, and to the EDR for the area in which they are
located.

Application Procedures

The appropriate EDA regional office will invite entities whose
proposals for Local Technical Assistance projects are selected for
further consideration to submit application packages. The application
will include a Standard Form-424 (OMB Control No. 0348-0043).

Eligibility for Specific Solicitations

EDA may, during the course of the year, identify specific economic
development technical assistance activities it wishes to have
conducted. Organizations and individuals interested in being invited to
respond to Solicitations of Applications (SOAs) to conduct such work
should submit information on their capabilities and experience to the
Director, Technical Assistance and Research Division, Economic
Development Administration, Room 7315, U.S. Department of Commerce,
Washington, DC 20230.

Further Information

For further information about Local Technical Assistance projects
contact the appropriate EDR. (See EDR listing in Section XII of this
announcement.) For further information about submitting projects whose
impact will cross EDA regional office boundaries, contact the National
Technical Assistance Coordinator, telephone (202) 482-2127.

IV. Program: National Technical Assistance

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.303 Economic
Development-Technical Assistance) 13 CFR Part 307, Subpart A

Authority

Funds under the National Technical Assistance Program are awarded
to eligible applicants who will offer assistance to local, regional and
state organizations, and/or conduct demonstrations of and disseminate
information about innovative development techniques designed to
alleviate economic distress. This program is authorized under Section
301(a) of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, as
amended, 42 U.S.C. 3151(a).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants for National Technical Assistance grants or
cooperative agreements include public or private nonprofit national,
state, area, district, or local organizations; public and private
colleges and universities; Indian tribes, local governments, and state
agencies. In certain circumstances, applications may be considered from
other eligible applicants such as private individuals, partnerships,
firms, and corporations.

Program Objective

The National Technical Assistance Program is designed to help
alleviate or prevent conditions of excessive unemployment or
underemployment and to address problems of economically distressed
populations.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $1.85 million are available for the National
Technical Assistance Program. Individual award amounts may vary and
generally will not exceed $200,000.

Funding Instrument

EDA will provide grants not to exceed 75 percent of proposed
project costs. Applicants are expected to provide the remaining share.
In cases where EDA issues a Solicitation of Applications, an
applicant's share may not be required. The Assistant Secretary may
waive all or part of the 25 percent nonfederal share of technical
assistance grants, if he/she determines that the nonfederal share is
not reasonably available because of the critical nature of the
situation requiring technical assistance or for other good cause.

Project Duration

Assistance will be for the period of time required to complete the
scope of the work. Generally, this will not exceed fifteen months.

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights. Projects will be
evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below in order to meet
the goals described above. EDA will consider proposals for National
Technical Assistance that include whether the proposal:
1. Effectively supports, through providing information and other
means, the capability of state and local organizations and
institutions, including nonprofit development groups, to undertake and
promote effective economic development programs targeted to people and
areas in distress.
2. Demonstrates innovative approaches to stimulating economic
development in one or more of the following:
a. Assistance to business in implementing technology initiatives
including innovations, transfer, and commercialization including high
value manufacturing through collaboration;
b. Export assistance;
c. Entrepreneurship assistance;
d. Sustainable development and growth management;
e. Empowerment zones/enterprise communities;
f. Defense conversion and industrial restructuring;
g. Assistance to colleges and universities, including community
colleges in implementing technology and/or developing curricula for
economic development; and
h. Other relevant economic development issues.
3. Presents an appropriate and clear project design.
4. Is proposed by organizations with the capacity, qualifications,
and staff necessary to undertake the intended activities.
5. Presents a reasonable, itemized budget for the proposed
activities.

Pre-Application Procedure

Potential applicants should submit one original and two copies of a
brief and concise proposal, not to exceed 20 pages. Vita and capability
information may be appended.
Proposals should include:
1. A cover page giving a short descriptive project title, the name
and address of the performing organization, the name and telephone
number of the project director, the project duration, the project
costs, the amount of EDA funds requested, and the program (National
Technical Assistance) from which EDA funds are being requested;
[[Page 13872]]
2. A brief scope-and-objectives section indicating why the project
is needed, giving its objectives, and providing a capsule description
of the project;
3. A more detailed description of the project and its methodology;
4. A work plan showing different phases of the project and their
timing;
5. A detailed budget, not to exceed one page, showing cost
breakdowns, with EDA-funded and non-EDA-funded costs presented in
separate columns and with the EDA-funded costs adding to the total
shown on the cover page;
6. Resumes for the project director and principal staff; and
7. A corporate or institutional capability statement, where
appropriate.
Proposals should be submitted to the Director, Technical Assistance
and Research Division, Economic Development Administration, Room 7315,
U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230.

Application Procedures

The Technical Assistance and Research Division will invite entities
whose proposals for National Technical Assistance projects are selected
for further consideration to submit application packages. Such
invitation, however, does not assure EDA funding. The application will
include a Standard Form-424 (OMB Control No. 0348-0043).

Eligibility for Specific Solicitations

EDA may, during the course of the year, identify additional
specific economic development technical assistance activities.
Organizations and individuals interested in being invited to respond to
Solicitations of Applications (SOAs) to conduct such work should submit
information on their capabilities and experience to the Director,
Technical Assistance and Research Division, Economic Development
Administration, Room 7315, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC
20230.

Further Information

For further information about National Technical Assistance
projects contact the Technical Assistance and Research Division,
telephone (202) 482-2127.

V. Program: University Center Technical Assistance Projects

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.303 Economic
Development-Technical Assistance) 13 CFR Part 307, Subpart A

Authority

Funds for the basic University Center projects are used as seed
money to help selected colleges and universities mobilize their own and
other resources to assist in the economic development of distressed
areas. The efforts of university centers should focus on helping public
bodies, nonprofit organizations and businesses plan and implement
activities designed to generate jobs and income. In addition, funds may
be used for projects which promote the goals of the University Center
program in other ways that demonstrate innovative economic development.
Support for these types of projects is authorized under Section 301(a)
of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, as amended,
42 U.S.C. 3151(a).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants for University Center grants are public and
private colleges and universities, associations representing such
institutions, and other organizations with expertise in University
Center program issues.

Program Description

This program helps educational institutions establish and maintain
outreach programs which permit them to be active and on-going
participants in economic development. The objective of the program is
to use the resources of the educational institutions to provide
technical assistance to alleviate or prevent conditions of excessive
unemployment or underemployment and problems of distressed populations
in individual states or substate areas. The technical assistance
provided under this program must be directed to clients outside the
institution of higher education.

Funding Availability

The FY 1995 budget for this program is $7.57 million. While the
expected funding range for each award is $75,000 to $150,000,
circumstances may warrant funding projects at higher or lower levels.
In FY 1994, EDA provided funding to 66 colleges and universities under
this program. Since most of them are expected to seek continuation
funding, it is unlikely that any new University Centers will be funded
in FY 1995.

Matching Requirements

A minimum match, equal to 25 percent of the total project cost, is
required.

Type of Funding Instrument

This program uses grants as its funding instrument.

Award Period

The project period for grants awarded under this program generally
will not exceed twelve months.

Indirect Costs

EDA encourages applicants to waive indirect costs for this program.
No more than 20 percent of the Federal grant and the minimum nonfederal
share may be allocated for indirect costs.

Application Procedures

The appropriate EDA regional office will invite entities whose
proposals for University Center Technical Assistance projects are
selected for further consideration to submit application packages. The
application will include a Standard Form 424 (OMB Control No. 0348-
0043).

Project Funding Priorities

Innovative proposals with a variety of economic development foci
are welcome. However, applicants should note that EDA will not award
University Center Technical Assistance program funds to provide general
business assistance (e.g., preparing business plans) in areas served by
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Minority Business
Development Centers (MBDCs), or Trade Adjustment Assistance Centers
(TAACs). Most successful proposals funded in the recent past have
emphasized providing technical assistance to public sector and
nonprofit organizations related to economic development planning and
projects, or helping private sector firms use technology to solve
manufacturing or processing problems.

Evaluation Criteria

For existing University Centers, EDA will primarily consider past
performance in determining whether to continue the award and the amount
of funding to be offered. In evaluating a proposal for new University
Center funding, EDA will consider the elements listed below. Evaluation
criteria are not assigned weights, as all factors are equally important
and contribute to the overall goals described above.
1. Addresses the economic development needs of the service area;
2. Complements the activities of other organizations in the
proposed service area that are engaged in economic development;
3. Has the commitment of the highest management levels of the
sponsoring institution;
4. Provides evidence of adequate nonfederal financial support,
either [[Page 13873]] from the sponsoring institution or other sources;
5. Outlines activities consistent with the expertise of the
proposed University Center staff and the academic programs and other
available resources within the sponsoring institution;
6. Complements and supports the local, regional or state economic
development strategies in the service area;
7. Presents a reasonable budget, including both the Federal and
nonfederal shares;
8. Documents past experience of the sponsoring institution in
operating technical assistance programs; and
9. Adds to the geographic distribution of University Centers across
the country.
All proposals must include a work program organized under the
following categories: (1) providing technical assistance; (2)
conducting applied research; and (3) disseminating results of the
University Center activities. For this program, technical assistance is
defined as an activity carried out by the University Center in response
to a direct request from a client outside the sponsoring educational
institution. Applied research is defined as an economic development
activity undertaken by the University Center at its own initiative.
All proposals must include quantitative and qualitative evaluation
criteria for each activity listed under the three categories of the
work program. These criteria, when accepted by EDA, will be the primary
guide used in evaluating the performance of the University Center.
All proposals must include a program budget that, at a minimum,
indicates the Federal and nonfederal funds allocated to each of the
three work program categories. At least 70 percent of the direct costs
of the project budget must be allocated to the first category of the
work program, providing technical assistance to clients outside the
sponsoring institutions.

Selection Procedures

The EDA regional offices review the proposals and make
recommendations for funding of new grants to the Assistant Secretary
for Economic Development, who makes the final decisions based on the
relative merits of the applications.

Proposal Submission Procedures for Continuation Grants

Each existing University Center will be notified by the appropriate
regional office of its eligibility for continuation funding. At that
time, University Centers eligible for continuation funding will be
notified of the amount of the required nonfederal share and provided
with additional program guidance.

Proposal Submission Procedures for New Basic Grants

Institutions seeking funding for a University Center should submit
a proposal describing the activities to be carried out with the grant
funds, to the appropriate EDA regional office, or to the EDR for the
area. (See EDA regional office and EDR listing in Section XII of the
announcement.)

Further Information

For further information about the University Center Technical
Assistance program contact the appropriate regional office or EDR
(Section XII) or the University Center Coordinator, Technical
Assistance and Research Division, Economic Development Administration,
Room H7315, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, D.C. 20230,
telephone (202) 482-2127.

VI. Program: Planning Assistance for Economic Development Districts,
Indian Tribes, and Redevelopment Areas

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.302 Economic
Development--Support for Planning Organizations) 13 CFR Part 307,
Subpart D

Authority

Funds under this program are awarded to defray administrative
expenses in support of the economic development planning efforts of
economic development districts (Districts), redevelopment areas (Areas)
and Indian tribes. This program is authorized under Section 301(b) of
the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, as amended, 42
U.S.C. 3151(b).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are economic development districts,
redevelopment areas, organizations representing redevelopment areas (or
parts of such areas), Indian tribes, organizations representing
multiple Indian tribes, the Federated States of Micronesia, the
Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.

Program Objective

The primary objective of planning assistance for administrative
expenses under section 301(b) is to support the formulation and
implementation of economic development programs designed to create or
retain full-time permanent jobs and income, particularly for the
unemployed and underemployed in the most distressed areas served by the
applicant. Planning activities supported by these program funds must be
part of a continuous process involving significant leadership by public
officials and private citizens.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $21.484 million are available in two
categories: Districts/Areas (Category A)--$18.583 million; and Indian
tribes (Category B)--$2.901 million. Individual awards may vary but
generally will not exceed $57,000.

Funding Instrument

Grant assistance can be provided for up to 75 percent of project
costs for Category A grants with the applicant required to provide the
remaining share from local (non-federal) sources. Category B grant
assistance may be provided for up to 100 percent of project costs.

Project Duration

Assistance will normally be for a period of twelve months.

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights. EDA will consider
the elements listed below in order to evaluate funding requests.
1. The responsiveness of the proposed work program to the program
regulations contained in 13 CFR 307.22;
2. Past performance of any currently funded grantee (including
information provided in scheduled progress reports);
3. The economic distress of the area served by the applicant;
4. Management and staff capacity and qualifications in economic
program/policy development and operations;
5. The local leaders' involvement in the applicant's economic
development activities; and
6. Priority consideration will be given to currently funded
grantees.

Proposal Submission Procedures

Application procedures may be obtained from EDA's regional offices
for the following:
a. Currently funded planning grantees; and
b. Proposals from applicants not currently funded under Categories
A or B, that would fit into either of those categories.
Eligible applicants under both Categories A and B should submit
proposals which include:
1. A letter signed by the chief elected official (Chairman of the
Board, Tribal [[Page 13874]] Chairman) or another legally authorized
official of the applicant stating the organization's desire to receive
funds to carry out the types of planning and administrative activities
eligible under the 301(b) program.
2. Significant, verifiable information on the level of economic
distress in the area, including unemployment and income data. Any major
changes in distress levels during the past year should be described.
3. A work program outlining the specific development activities
that will be carried out under the grant and explaining how they relate
to the problems identified in the area OEDP, annual report, or other
documents.
New applicants should submit one copy of the proposal to the
appropriate economic development representative, and an original and
one copy to the appropriate EDA regional office. Addresses of the EDA
regional offices and listing of the economic development
representatives are found in Section XII of this Notice.

Formal Application Procedures

EDA regional offices will contact currently funded grantees to
inform them of the procedures for submitting applications for
continuation funding.
Following review of the proposals submitted, EDA will invite those
selected for funding consideration to submit formal applications.
Funding levels will be determined by the economic distress and need of
the area served by the applicants, past performance of previously
funded grantees, and availability of program funds. The application
will include an SF-424 (approved by the Office of Management and Budget
Control No. 0348-0043), proposed budget, scope of work and staffing
plan.

Further Information

For further information contact the appropriate economic
development representative, EDA regional office (see Section XII of
this Notice), or the Director, Planning Division, Economic Development
Administration, Room 7319, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC
20230; telephone (202) 482-3027.

VII. Program: Planning Assistance for States and Urban Areas

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.305 Economic
Development--State and Urban Area Economic Development Planning) 13
CFR Part 307, Subpart D

Authority

Funds under the State and Urban Planning Program are awarded to
defray administrative expenses in support of economic development
planning efforts of eligible applicants. This program is authorized
under Section 302(a) of the Public Works and Economic Development Act
of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3151a.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants under this program are the governors of states,
the chief executive officers of cities and counties, and substate
planning and development organizations (including redevelopment areas
and economic development districts).

Program Objective

The primary objective of planning assistance under section 302(a)
is to strengthen significant economic development planning capability
and initiatives of eligible applicants to ensure a more productive use
of available resources in reducing the effects of economic problems,
particularly in those areas experiencing severe economic distress.
Assistance must be part of a continuous process involving
significant local leadership from public officials and private citizens
and should include efforts to reduce unemployment and increase incomes.
These efforts should be systematic and coordinated, when applicable,
with other planning organizations in the area, and should strengthen
the planning capabilities of applicants.
Activities eligible for support include economic analysis,
definition of development goals, determination of project
opportunities, development of economic development policies, processes
and procedures, and formulation and implementation of an economic
development program.
Planning program funds will not be used to provide support to
activities that more appropriately meet the criteria for funding under
the EDA Technical Assistance programs.
EDA is interested in proposals for planning activities designed to
address problems of economically-distressed segments of the population.
Funding priority will be given to proposals promoting exports;
entrepreneurship; and technology initiatives including innovation,
transfer, commercialization, high value manufacturing through
collaboration, or that reduce barriers to the development of new
businesses. In the case of proposals from states, EDA is particularly
interested in innovative approaches to planning and implementing
economic development initiatives such as tourism development,
manufacturing technology, and sustainable growth, as well as efforts
that lend themselves to replication in other areas.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $4.87 million are available for providing
grant assistance under this program. Individual grants under this
program generally will range between $50,000 to $200,000.

Funding Instrument

Grant assistance may be provided for up to 75 percent of project
costs. Applicants will be required to provide the remaining share,
preferably in cash. Applications for grants exceeding $200,000 may be
given low funding priority. EDA may consider proposals for smaller
grants to support the aforementioned appropriate activities.

Project Duration

Assistance will be for the period of time required to complete the
work. This period is normally 12 to 18 months. If Congress makes funds
available for this program in subsequent years, grantees may submit
applications for appropriate projects for up to a total of three
awards.

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights. Projects will be
evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below to meet the goals
described above. The content of the development plan and overall
quality of the proposal and the economic distress of the area will be
the principal factors considered in evaluating proposals from eligible
entities. In assessing the distress factor, priority consideration will
be given to proposals from states and urban areas experiencing
substantial economic distress. In the case of urban areas, high
priority will be given to those with unemployment rates two or more
percentage points higher than the U.S. average and per capita income
levels 80 percent or less of the U.S. average. For states, high
priority will be given to those that meet both of the above criteria,
as well as those that meet one of the above criteria and have distress
equal to or greater than the national level for the other criterion.
The most recent per capita income and 24-month average unemployment
data available will be used to measure economic distress.
Proposals from states or urban areas which do not exhibit
significant distress on the basis of unemployment or income data will
not be considered unless other acceptable evidence of
[[Page 13875]] substantial distress is provided by the applicant.
Proposals from states and urban areas which are both below the U.S.
national unemployment rate and above the national per capita income are
unlikely to be funded.
Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of the elements listed
below.
1. Appropriateness of the work program to the section 302(a)
program objectives;
2. The economic distress of the area served by the applicant;
3. Extent to which the proposed planning activities are expected to
impact upon the service area's economic development needs, and the
extent to which the proposal addresses the problems of the unemployed
and underemployed of the area, including minorities, workers displaced
by plant closings, etc.;
4. The proximity of the performing office to the chief executive
(i.e., likelihood that the activities will have a significant influence
on the policy and decision making process);
5. Past performance of currently or formerly funded grantees, when
applicable;
6. The amount of local participation provided as matching dollars
to the Federal funds; and
7. Other characteristics, such as involvement of the private sector
businesses and professional groups in the proposed activities, and
particularly for states, the innovativeness of the proposed approach
and replicability of the model process or results.

Proposal Submission Procedures

Potential applicants should submit proposals that include:
1. A letter, signed by the chief executive of the applicant
organization, indicating a desire to receive funds to carry out the
planning activities outlined in the proposal; where the funded planning
program will be placed in the organization, including the name and
title of the person to be responsible for program implementation; the
amount and for what period funding is being requested; and the
anticipated funding arrangement if the planning activity is to continue
beyond the period of EDA support.
2. Significant, verifiable information on the level of economic
distress in the area, including unemployment and income data. Any major
changes in distress levels during the past year should be described.
3. Information indicating the applicant's commitment to the
proposed work program as demonstrated by amount of local funding and
the degree of interest displayed by the chief executive.
4. A time chart showing all major work program elements, projected
element start and completion dates, and the related financial
expenditures programmed for each work element.
5. A work program of no more than 10 pages which outlines the
specific planning activities that will be carried out under the grant
and specifies which activities will be handled by in-house staff,
consultants, etc. The work program should also explain the analysis and
basis of the need for the proposed activities, expected impacts and
their timing, target population(s), and involvement of the private
sector in the proposed activities.
Current grantees seeking additional funding under this announcement
should comply with the instructions of this notice. Current grantees
must also include a 3-5 page progress report for the current grant when
they submit the proposal and at the time they forward the formal
application.
One copy of the proposal should be sent to the appropriate economic
development representative, and an original and one copy to the
appropriate EDA regional office. The EDA regional office and the name,
address and telephone number of the economic development representative
for the applicant's area can be found in Section XII of this Notice.

Formal Application Procedures

EDA will evaluate proposals using the selection criteria cited
above. Once the merits of the proposal are established, EDA will
initiate discussions with the prospective applicant to clarify and
improve elements of the proposal, if necessary, and will invite those
whose proposals are selected for funding consideration to submit formal
applications, which will include an SF-424 (OMB Control No. 0348-0043),
scope of work, proposed budget, staffing plan and other requested
information. It should be noted that an invitation to submit a proposal
does not assure EDA funding. Applications will be processed as they are
received. Applications received after FY 1995 funds are exhausted may
be retained by EDA for consideration for funding the following fiscal
year, assuming funds are available.

Further Information

VIII. Program: Research and Evaluation Projects

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.312 Economic
Development--Research and Evaluation Program) 13 CFR Part 307,
Subpart C

Authority

Funds under the Research and Evaluation Program are used to support
studies that will increase knowledge about the causes of economic
distress and approaches to alleviating such problems. This program is
authorized under Section 301(c) of the Public Works and Economic
Development Act of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3151(c).

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants for research and evaluation grants or
cooperative agreements include private individuals, partnerships,
corporations, associations, colleges and universities, and other
suitable organizations with expertise relevant to economic development
research.

Program Objective

The objectives of section 301(c) grants and cooperative agreements
are the following:
1. To determine the causes of unemployment, underemployment,
underdevelopment, and chronic depression in various areas and regions
of the Nation.
2. To assist in the formulation and implementation of national,
state, and local programs that will raise employment and income levels
and otherwise produce solutions to problems resulting from the above
conditions.
3. To evaluate the effectiveness of programs, projects, and
techniques used to (a) alleviate economic distress and (b) promote
economic development.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $500,000 are available for this program.
Funds will be used for projects selected through the application
procedures described below and through EDA-initiated solicitations.
Individual awards may vary but generally will not exceed $100,000.

Funding Instrument

EDA will provide grants and cooperative agreements covering up to
100 percent of project costs. [[Page 13876]]

Project Duration

Assistance under this program will normally be for a period not
exceeding 15 months.

Evaluation Criteria

To meet the goals described above, EDA will use the following
unweighted criteria to evaluate research and evaluation proposals:
1. Suitability of the subject.
2. Potential usefulness of the research to state and local economic
development officials and specialists.
3. General quality and clarity of the proposal.
4. Soundness and completeness of the research methodology.
5. Qualifications of principal investigator(s) and, where
appropriate, performing organization(s).
6. Previous performance of principal investigator or performing
organization on EDA-funded projects, if applicable.
7. Cost and value of proposed product in relation to cost.
EDA is interested in receiving proposals dealing with:
1. Employment and unemployment;
2. Income and poverty;
3. Rural and nonmetropolitan economic development;
4. Urban economic development;
5. Regional and local growth and competitiveness;
6. Industrial location, industrial networks, and industrial
clustering;
7. Sustainable development and growth management;
8. Minority businesses and employment;
9. Export development;
10. Development finance; and
11. Productivity and technology.
Requests should be for specific, well-defined, one-time research
projects. EDA research grants are not intended for support of
continuing programs (permanent research programs, publication and
information programs, periodic forecasts, etc.), or for non-research
activities. EDA normally prefers research of broad geographic scope,
that covers the whole country or a large multistate region, as opposed
to research covering (in declining order of preference) a small region,
a state, a multicounty area, or a single city or county. Preference
will be given to practical cause-and-effect research and descriptive
analyses, and funding for such will receive higher priority than
theoretical studies, modeling (other than for hypothesis testing), etc.
Economic development planning and technical assistance will not be
funded under the Research and Evaluation Program; the Planning and
Technical Assistance Programs are for those purposes.

Proposal Submission Procedures

Potential applicants should submit one original and two (2) copies
of a brief and concise proposal, not to exceed 20 pages, and vita and
capability information. Proposals should avoid long background
discussions and literature surveys, but should be reasonably detailed,
particularly in explaining value to EDA, methodology, and data sources.
Each proposal should include:
1. A cover page stating that funding is sought under EDA's Research
and Evaluation program, giving a short descriptive project title, the
name and address of the performing organization, the names and
telephone numbers of the project director and principal investigators,
the project duration, the amount of EDA funds requested, and total
project cost;
2. A brief scope-and-objectives section indicating why the project
is needed, giving its objectives, and providing a capsule description
of the project;
3. A more detailed description of the project and its methodology;
4. A work plan showing different phases of the project and their
timing;
5. A detailed budget, not to exceed two pages, showing cost
breakdowns, with EDA-funded and non-EDA-funded costs presented in
separate columns, where applicable, and with the EDA-funded costs
adding to the total shown on the cover page;
6. Resumes for the project director and principal investigators;
and
7. A corporate or institutional capability statement, where
appropriate.
The cover letter accompanying the proposal should inform EDA of
whether any other organization(s) or Federal agency(ies) is or will be
considering the proposal. Any non-EDA contributions to the project,
whether by the performing organization or third parties, should be
identified.
The deadline for receipt of proposals will be three months after
the date of this announcement.
Proposals should be submitted to the Director, Technical Assistance
and Research Division, Economic Development Administration, Room 7315,
U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230.

Formal Application Procedures

EDA will evaluate the proposals as they are received using the
selection criteria described above. Organizations and individuals whose
proposals are selected for further consideration will be invited to
submit an application. The formal application will include an SF-424
(OMB Control No. 0348-0043).

Eligibility for Specific Solicitations

In addition to using research and evaluation funds to support
proposals submitted under the procedures described above, EDA may
during the fiscal year identify other studies, including program
evaluations, for funding consideration.
Organizations and individuals interested in being invited to
respond to Solicitations of Applications (SOAs) to conduct such studies
should submit information on their capabilities and experience to the
address listed above. This information will be used to determine
eligibility to compete for projects under specific SOAs.

Further Information

For further information, contact the Director, Technical Assistance
and Research Division, at the above address; telephone, (202) 482-4085.

IX. Program: Economic Adjustment Assistance (Title IX)

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No. 11.307 Special Economic
Development and Adjustment Assistance Program--Long-Term Economic
Deterioration (LTED) and Sudden and Severe Economic Dislocation
(SSED)) 13 CFR Part 308

Authority

Funds under the Economic Adjustment Program are used to assist
areas experiencing changes in their economic situation which are
causing, or threaten to cause, serious structural damage to the
underlying economic base. Such changes may occur suddenly or over time,
and result from industrial or corporate restructuring in response to
technological advancements or changes in the marketplace, new Federal
laws or requirements, reductions in defense expenditures, depletion of
natural resources and natural disasters. Strategy grants provide the
resources for organizing and conducting a strategic planning process
and Implementation grants support one or more activities identified in
an adjustment strategy approved, though not necessarily funded by EDA.
Such activities include but are not limited to: the creation or
expansion of strategically targeted business development and financing
programs, infrastructure improvements, organizational development, and
market or industry research and analysis. This program is authorized
under Title IX of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of
1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3241-3245.

Program Objective

The purpose of the Economic Adjustment Program is to enable
[[Page 13877]] communities in affected areas to meet the challenge of
economic change, constructively and effectively, through strategies for
inducing capital investment in production of the types of goods and/or
services for which the community may have or be able to develop a
comparative economic advantage, and which will lead to saving and/or
creating permanent jobs. In providing funding to support the adjustment
process, EDA's objectives are to: (1) Provide impacted communities with
the skills and knowledge needed to organize and carry out a strategic
planning process focusing on increasing the productivity and
competitiveness of a community's assets, for example, existing
industries and business acumen, natural resources, and labor force
skills; (2) expand the capacity of public officials and development
organizations to work more effectively with their business community to
identify and address unmet needs of strategically targeted firms for
management assistance, access to information to help with marketing and
modernization and finding sources of financing, and in organizing
collaborative alliances among firms for such activities as product and
market research, and new product development; (3) assist communities
overcome critical impediments to implementing their adjustment
strategy, such as a lack of available financing for the targeted
businesses or weaknesses in their economic infrastructure for which no
other sources of funding, including EDA's Title I Program, are
available; (4) enable communities to coordinate and strategically
target Federal resources available to support economic recovery from
Federal actions adversely affecting a major industrial sector and/or
the economy of a discrete geographic region, and from natural
disasters; and (5) encourage the development of innovative public/
private approaches to economic restructuring and revitalization.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $45 million are available for the Economic
Adjustment Program in FY 1995. Grants awarded under this program
generally range between $25,000 and $5 million.

Funding Instrument

Title IX funds are awarded through grants generally not to exceed
75 percent of the project cost. Acceptable sources of the local share
include, but are not limited to, local government general revenue
funds; Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funds or
balance of state awards; and other public and private donations. The
Assistant Secretary may waive all or part of the 25 percent nonfederal
share of economic adjustment assistance grants, if he determines that
the nonfederal share is not reasonably available because of the
critical nature of the situation requiring economic adjustment
assistance or for other good cause. The full amount of the local share
need not be in hand at the time of application; however, the applicant
must have a firm commitment from identified source(s), and the funds
must be readily available. The local share must not be encumbered in
any way that would preclude its use as required by the grant agreement.
The local share for grants to establish or recapitalize a revolving
loan fund (RLF) must be in cash, and while the local share for grants
for other activities may be cash or in-kind, priority consideration
will be given to proposals with a cash local share.

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants within areas meeting the EDA eligibility
criteria described below include a redevelopment area or economic
development district established under Title IV; an Indian tribe; a
state; a city or other political subdivision of a state, or a
consortium of such political subdivisions; a Community Development
Corporation defined in the Community Economic Development Act of 1981,
42 U.S.C. 9802 (i.e., Community Development Corporations receiving
financial assistance under the authority of the Community Services
Block Grant Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 9910(d)); a nonprofit
organization determined by EDA to be the representative of a
redevelopment area for purposes of the particular project; the
Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands,
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American
Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Eligible Areas

The area(s) to be assisted by the applicant generally must be
eligible on the basis of the criteria, described below, for
establishing that it is experiencing either Long-Term Economic
Deterioration or a Sudden and Severe Economic Dislocation.
A. Long-Term Economic Deterioration (LTED)
To receive priority consideration for funding as an LTED area, the
area must be experiencing at least one of three economic problems: very
high unemployment; low per capita income; or chronic distress (i.e.,
failure to keep pace with national economic growth trends over the last
five years). Priority will be given to those areas with two or more of
these indicators. Eligibility is generally determined statistically.
Further information is available from EDA's regional offices or the
economic development representative for your area (see Section XII of
this Notice).
B. Sudden and Severe Economic Dislocation (SSED)
To receive priority consideration for funding as an SSED area, the
area must show actual or threatened permanent job losses that exceed
the following threshold criteria, unless otherwise determined by the
Assistant Secretary:
1. For areas not in Metropolitan Statistical Areas:
a. If the unemployment rate of the Labor Market Area exceeds the
national average, the dislocation must amount to the lesser of two
(2.0) percent of the employed population, or 500 direct jobs.
b. If the unemployment rate of the Labor Market Area is equal to or
less than the national average, the dislocation must amount to the
lesser of four (4.0) percent of the employed population, or 1,000
direct jobs.
2. For areas within Metropolitan Statistical Areas:
a. If the unemployment rate of the Metropolitan Statistical Area
exceeds the national average, the dislocation must amount to the lesser
of one-half (0.5) percent of the employed population, or 4,000 direct
jobs.
b. If the unemployment rate of the Metropolitan Statistical Area is
equal to or less than the national average, the dislocation must amount
to the lesser of one (1.0) percent of the employed population or 8,000
direct jobs.
In addition, fifty (50) percent of the job loss threshold must
result from the action of a single employer, or eighty (80) percent of
the job loss threshold must occur in a single standard industry
classification (i.e., two digit SIC code).
In the case of a Presidentially declared natural disaster, the area
eligibility criteria are waived. In other exceptional circumstances,
the criteria may be partially or fully waived at the discretion of the
Assistant Secretary.
Actual dislocations must have occurred within one year and
threatened dislocations must be anticipated to occur within two years
of the date EDA is contacted.

Project Duration

Projects are expected to be completed in a timely manner consistent
with the nature of the project. However, the [[Page 13878]] maximum
period for which assistance will be provided shall not be more than
five years from date of award.

Evaluation Criteria

All proposals, regardless of the basis for the area's eligibility,
will be screened for conformance to statutory and regulatory
requirements, the relative severity of the area's economic problem, the
quality of the strategy developed (or scope of work for the strategy to
be developed) to address the problem, the merits of the activity(ies)
for which funding is requested, and ability of the prospective
applicant to carry out the proposed activity(ies) successfully.
Particular program requirements and factors are not weighted in
EDA's evaluation of proposals as all factors are equally important.
Projects will be evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below in
order to meet the goals described above.
A. For Strategy Grants
1. The applicant organization has the necessary authority, mandate
and capacity to lead and manage the planning process and implementation
of the resulting strategy.
2. The planning process provides for the representation of public
and private sector entities with a contribution to make to the
development of the strategy and/or on which accomplishment of the
strategic objectives will depend. These entities include public program
and service providers, trade and business associations, educational and
research institutions, community development corporations, etc.
3. The proposed scope of work focuses on the specific economic
problems to be addressed and provides for undertaking the appropriate
research and analysis needed to formulate a realistic, market-based,
adjustment strategy.
B. For Implementation Grants
1. Any activity or project proposed for funding must generally be
clearly identifiable as an integral and priority element within an
adjustment strategy for the eligible area(s) prepared or updated within
the preceeding two years. The strategy should address and/or provide
evidence of the following:
a. An appropriately designed and conducted planning process;
b. A thorough understanding of the economic problems being
addressed;
c. A sound analysis of the industry sectors and the firms within
them that comprise the area's economic base, and of the particular
strengths and weaknesses of the area that contribute to, or detract
from, its current and potential economic competitiveness.
d. Strategic objectives that flow from the economic analysis and
conclusions and focus on stimulating investment in new and/or expanding
economic activities that offer the best prospects for revitalization
and growth;
e. Appropriate and necessary resources in the area and elsewhere
have been/will be mobilized and coordinated to support implementation
of the strategy; and
f. The performance measures which the applicant will use to assess
progress toward accomplishing its strategic objectives.
2. All individual activities or projects proposed for funding must
be consistent with one or more of the Economic Adjustment Program
objectives stated above. Particular consideration will be given to
proposals involving innovative approaches to building and implementing
public/private and multifirm partnerships for such purposes as new
product development and marketing, and dissemination and application of
new production technologies and management practices.
3. Proposals for capitalizing or recapitalizing a RLF must in
addition describe and/or provide evidence of:
a. The need for a new or expanded public financing tool to
complement other business assistance programs and services available to
firms and/or would-be entrepreneurs in industry sectors and/or
locations targeted by the adjustment strategy;
b. The types of financing activities anticipated; and
c. The prospective RLF's organizational capacity to work
effectively with the business community and other financing providers,
to function as an integral part of the overall economic adjustment
effort and to manage the lending function.

Proposal Submission Procedures

Interested parties should contact the economic development
representative for the area or the appropriate EDA regional office (see
Section XII of this Notice) for a proposal package.

Application Procedures

Following a review of project proposals, EDA will invite those
proponents of projects selected for funding consideration to submit
applications. It should be noted that an invitation to apply does not
assure funding. The application will include an ED-540, as approved by
the Office of Management and Budget Control No. 0610-0058. Applicants
for RLF funding are generally required to submit a RLF Plan in addition
to the adjustment strategy for the area. Guidelines on RLF's are
available from the regional offices.

Further Information

For further information, contact the appropriate economic
development representative, EDA regional office (see Section XII of
this Notice), or the Director, Economic Adjustment Division, Economic
Development Administration, Room 7327, U.S. Department of Commerce,
Washington, DC 20230; telephone (202) 482-2659.

X. Program: Defense Conversion Assistance

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No: 11.307 Special Economic
Development and Adjustment Assistance Program--Long-Term Economic
Deterioration (LTED) and Sudden and Severe Economic Dislocation
(SSED)) 13 CFR Part 308

Authority

Funds under the Defense Conversion program are used to enable areas
where economies are adversely impacted by reductions in defense
spending, to facilitate the orderly redeployment of their defense
created assets to activities which help restructure and/or strengthen
their economic base. Areas experiencing closure of a military facility,
a defense related Department of Energy facility and/or reductions in
defense procurements may be eligible for assistance. This program is
authorized under section 4103(b) of Division D of Public Law 101-510
for FY 1991, and section 4305 of Division D of Public Law 102-484 for
FY 1993, 10 U.S.C. 2391 note; and by the Public Works and Economic
Development Act of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3131, 3151(a), 3151(b),
and 3171(a)(3).

Program Objective

The program is designed to provide defense impacted communities
with the resources to develop and/or carry out programs and projects,
singly or in combination, that support implementation of a defense
conversion strategy or base re-use plan. Commonly funded types of
programs and projects include, but are not limited to: planning and
strategy development (only as may be necessary to complement and expand
work funded by the Office of Economic Adjustment, Department of
Defense); research and analysis, such as marketing and feasibility
studies; design and delivery of conversion or development assistance
and services for affected businesses, typically smaller defense
contractors in order to, for example, fill gaps in available technical
services, developing collaborative alliances for [[Page 13879]] new
product and market development, and establishing or expanding financing
programs for targeted businesses; and infrastructure improvements
needed to facilitate the re-use of former military facilities.
Assistance may be provided directly to affected communities, and
also through other entities, such as states or regional development
organizations, when to do so would result in more effective and
efficient delivery of a particular service or program.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $120 million are available for the Defense
Conversion program in FY 1995. Grants awarded under this program
generally range between $25,000 and $5 million.

Note: The Selection Criteria and Application Procedures set
forth in this announcement supersede those previously announced in
the Federal Register of May 6, 1993 (58 FR 27188), and apply to the
unobligated balance of the $80 million authorized under section 4305
of Division D of Public Law 102-484 and of the $50 million
authorized under section 4103(b) of Division D of Public Law 101-
510.

Funding Instrument

Assistance is in the form of grants, which will normally be awarded
under the authority of EDA's Title IX Economic Adjustment program.
However, grants for assistance under the Defense Conversion program may
also be made to applicants eligible for assistance under the Title I
Public Works and the Title III Technical Assistance, Research and
Planning programs.
Title IX grants may be awarded for up to 75 percent of the total
project cost. Acceptable sources of the local share include, but are
not limited to, local government general revenue funds; Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funds or balance of state
awards; and other public and private donations. The Assistant Secretary
may waive all or part of the 25 percent nonfederal share of economic
adjustment assistance grants, if he determines that the nonfederal
share is not reasonably available because of the critical nature of the
situation requiring economic adjustment assistance or for other good
cause. The full amount of the local share need not be in hand at the
time of application; however, the applicant must have a firm commitment
from identified source(s), and the funds must be readily available. The
local share must not be encumbered in any way that would preclude its
use as required by the grant agreement. The local share for a revolving
loan fund project must be in cash, and while the local share for other
types of defense conversion activities may be cash or in-kind, priority
consideration will be given to proposals with a cash local share.
For information regarding local share requirements for the Title I
Public Works and the Title III Technical Assistance, Research and
Planning programs, Sections II, IV and VI of this Announcement should
be consulted.
In accordance with Public Law 103-317, financial assistance may be
provided for projects to be located on military installations closed or
scheduled for closure or realignment to eligible grantees under PWEDA
without it being required that the grantee have title or ability to
obtain a lease for the property, for the useful life of the project
when, in the opinion of the Secretary of Commerce such financial
assistance is necessary for the economic development of the area; and
the Secretary of Commerce may, as he or she deems appropriate, consult
with the Secretary of Defense regarding title to the land on military
installations closed or scheduled for closure or realignment.

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants within areas meeting the eligibility criteria
described below include a redevelopment area or economic development
district established under Title IV of this Act, 42 U.S.C. 3161; an
Indian tribe; a state; a city or other political subdivision of a
state, or a consortium of such political subdivisions; a Community
Development Corporation defined in the Community Economic Development
Act of 1981, 42 U.S.C. 9802 (i.e., Community Development Corporations
receiving financial assistance under the authority of the Community
Services Block Grant Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 9910(d)); a nonprofit
organization determined by EDA to be the representative of a
redevelopment area; and the Federated States of Micronesia, the
Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.
For assistance under the Title I Public Works program, and Title
III Technical Assistance, Research and Planning programs, Sections II,
IV and VI of this Announcement should be consulted.
Applicants must meet either the Department of Defense criteria or
the Economic Adjustment program criteria described in A and B below:
A. Department of Defense Criteria
(1) In the case of a proposed or actual establishment, realignment,
or closure of a military installation, where the Secretary of Defense
determines that such action is likely to have a direct and
significantly adverse consequence on the affected community.
(2) In the case of a publicly announced planned reduction in DOD
spending, the cancellation or termination of a DOD contract, or the
failure to proceed with a previously approved major defense acquisition
program, assistance may be provided only if the reduction,
cancellation, termination, or failure will have a direct and
significant adverse impact on a community and will result in the loss
of the lesser of:
(a) 2,500 or more employee positions, in the case of a Metropolitan
Statistical Area (MSA) or similar area (as defined by the Director of
the Office of Management and Budget);
(b) 1,000 or more employee positions, in the case of a labor market
area outside of an MSA; or
(c) one percent of the total number of civilian jobs in that area.
B. EDA Criteria
The dislocation must satisfy one of the following criteria (in
exceptional circumstances, the criteria may be partially waived by the
Assistant Secretary for Economic Development):
(1) For areas not in MSAs:
(a) If the unemployment rate of the Labor Market Area exceeds the
national average, the dislocation must amount to the lesser of two
(2.0) percent of the employed population, or 500 direct jobs.
(b) If the unemployment rate of the Labor Market Area is equal to
or less than the national average, the dislocation must amount to the
lesser of four (4.0) percent of the employed population, or 1,000
direct jobs.
(2) For areas within MSAs:
(a) If the unemployment rate of the MSA exceeds the national
average, the dislocation must amount to the lesser of one-half (0.5)
percent of the employed population, or 4,000 direct jobs.
(b) If the unemployment rate of the MSA is equal to or less than
the national average, the dislocation must amount to the lesser of one
(1.0) percent of the employed population, or 8,000 direct jobs.
Under the Defense program, an area will normally be eligible for up
to two years before the announced date for a base closure or contract
reduction and for two years after. However, if completion of an area's
adjustment strategy is delayed for good reason, the
[[Page 13880]] area's eligibility may be extended for up to one year
from the date the strategy is accepted by EDA.

Project Duration

Projects are expected to be completed in a timely manner consistent
with the nature of the project. However, the maximum period for which
assistance will be provided shall not be more than five years from date
of award for Title I and Title IX projects. For projects under Title
III Technical Assistance, Research and Planning programs, assistance
will be for the period of time required to complete the scope of work,
which typically will not exceed twelve months.

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria will not be assigned weights as all factors are
equally important. Projects will be evaluated on the basis of the
elements listed below in order to meet the goals described above. Key
factors in EDA's evaluation of proposed defense conversion projects
include:
1. The relative severity of the impact of the defense cutbacks on
the economic and employment base of the area(s).
2. The quality of the area economic adjustment/defense conversion
strategy or base reuse plan which is a prerequisite for funding
consideration. The plan should address and/or provide evidence of the
following:
a. An appropriately designed and conducted planning process;
b. The scale and characteristics of the impact of the defense
cutbacks on workers, industry sectors and businesses;
c. Strategic objectives that address the defense related problems
and opportunities, are appropriate to the area's particular economic
attributes and circumstances, and are based on sound research and
analysis;
d. All appropriate and available Federal, State and local
resources, programs, services, etc., have been identified and will be
mobilized and coordinated to support implementation of the strategy;
and
e. The performance measures which the applicant will use to assess
progress toward accomplishing its strategic objectives.

Note: EDA may, in some instances, consider funding a project
prior to completion of the strategy/plan, provided that (a) an
appropriate community planning process is underway, (b) sufficient
analysis has been done to show that the proposed project is
economically viable and potentially consistent with the evolving
strategy and (c) the proposed project has the support of the
community.

3. The degree to which the proposed program/project contributes to:
a. Productive redeployment of defense created assets (facilities,
workforce skills, industrial technologies and production capacity);
b. Overcoming critical impediments to a community's ability to
progress with implementing its strategy or base reuse plan; and
c. Facilitating/stimulating private sector investment in the
production of the types of goods and services that will strengthen the
economic base of the area over the long term, and lead to the
generation of new employment opportunities and revenue.
4. The capacity of the prospective applicant to administer the
proposed project and ensure achievement of the stated objectives.

Proposal Submission Procedures

When a major defense cutback is announced, EDA's economic
development representative for the state in which it is to occur will
normally contact officials of the affected community. Otherwise, the
interested parties should contact either the economic development
representative for the area or the appropriate EDA regional office (see
Section XII of this Notice). The economic development representative
will track the community's strategy/base reuse planning process and
provide information regarding activities/projects that could be
considered for EDA assistance. At such time as the planning process is
sufficiently advanced for prospective implementation programs and
projects to have been identified, the economic development
representative will advise the community on the preparation of a short
funding proposal.

Application Procedures

EDA will evaluate proposals using the evaluation criteria cited
above. Once the merits of the proposal are established, EDA will work
if necessary with the prospective applicant to clarify elements of the
proposal and such EDA administrative policies and requirements as may
apply to the particular type of program or project for which assistance
is being requested. For example, applicants for assistance to
capitalize a revolving loan fund (RLF) are generally required to submit
a RLF Plan.
When a proposal is selected for funding consideration, EDA will
invite the proponent to submit a formal application under the authority
of the specified funding program, i.e., Title I, III or IX. The
appropriate formal application package will be provided. It should be
noted that an invitation to apply does not assure funding.

Further Information

XI. Program: Trade Adjustment Assistance

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: 11.313 Economic
Development--Trade Adjustment Assistance) 13 CFR Part 315

Authority

Funds under the Trade Adjustment Assistance Program are awarded to
a network of Trade Adjustment Assistance Centers (TAACs), located
around the Nation, which provide technical assistance to certified
firms adversely affected by increased imports. This program is
authorized under Title II, Chapter 3 of the Trade Act of 1974, 19
U.S.C. 2341-2355.

Funding Availability

Funds in the amount of $10.0 million are available for trade
adjustment assistance. Nearly all of these funds will be provided to
the nationwide network of TAACs through cooperative agreements.
Individual awards generally range between $650,000 and $1.025 million.
No new centers will be funded in FY 1995.
Funds are also awarded under this program to organizations
representing trade-injured industries. Limited funds are available for
industry technical assistance for continuation of an existing program.
No new industry assistance projects are expected to be funded in FY
1995.

Program Objective

The Trade Adjustment Assistance Program is designed to provide
technical assistance to certified firms and industries hurt by the
impact of increased imports. The TAACs help firms submit certification
petitions to the Trade Adjustment Assistance Division (TAAD) of EDA. If
the firm is certified, TAACs provide technical assistance to the firm
in developing a strategy to adjust to the import injury. A firm should
work closely with the appropriate TAAC in petitioning for
certification. Certified firms should also work closely with the
appropriate TAAC in diagnosing their problems and developing an
adjustment proposal, and [[Page 13881]] in applying for technical
assistance if their adjustment proposal is accepted by EDA.
An industry association or other organization interested in
receiving an industry assistance cooperative agreement must meet with a
TAAD representative to discuss the industry's problems, opportunities,
and assistance needs.

Criteria for Evaluating Industry Assistance Proposals

Industry associations and other organizations seeking trade
adjustment industry assistance must demonstrate that the industry is
injured by foreign trade and that the activities to be funded will
yield some short-term actions that the industry itself (and individual
firms) can and will take toward the restoration of the industry's
international competitiveness. Evaluation criteria will not be assigned
weights as all factors are equally important. Projects will be
evaluated on the basis of the elements listed below in order to meet
the goals described above.
The emphasis is on practical results that can be implemented in the
near term, and long-term research and development activities are given
low priority. It is also expected that the industry will continue
activities on its own without the need for continued Federal
assistance.

Application Procedures

Industry associations or other organizations seeking industry
assistance must submit an application identified as Standard Form 424
(OMB Control No. 0348-0043), if encouraged to do so as a result of the
meeting with a TAAD representative.
Acceptable industry assistance applications will be processed as
funds are available; normally one to three months is required for final
decision on application.

Formula and Matching Requirements

Generally, a minimum of 50 percent share is required for industry
assistance cooperative agreements.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance

Industry assistance cooperative agreements are generally for a 12-
month period, but may be longer for tasks requiring more time to
complete.

Further Information

For further information, contact the Director, Trade Adjustment
Assistance Division, Economic Development Administration, Room 7023,
U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230; telephone (202) 482-
3373.

XII. EDA Regional Offices and Economic Development Representatives

The EDA regional and field offices, states covered, and the
economic development representatives (EDRs) are listed below.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDRs States covered
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atlanta Regional Office
401 West Peachtree Street, N.W., Suite 1820
Atlanta, Georgia 30308-3510
Telephone: (404) 730-3002

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Burnette, F. Wayne, Aronov Building, Room 705, 474 South Court Street, Alabama.
Montgomery, AL 36104, Telephone: (205) 223-7008.
Smith, Lola B., Federal Building, Room 423, 80 North Hughey Avenue, Orlando, Florida.
FL 32801, Telephone: (407) 648-6572.
Day, William J., Jr., 401 West Peachtree Street, N.W., Suite 1820, Atlanta, Georgia.
GA 30308-3510, Telephone: (404) 730-3000.
Hunter, Bobby D., 771 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Lexington, KY 40503-5477, Kentucky.
Telephone: (606) 224-7426.
Ainsworth, Bob, 221 Federal Building, 100 West Capital Street, Jackson, MS Mississippi.
39269, Telephone: (601) 965-4342.
Jones, Dale L., P.O. Box 2522, Raleigh, NC 27601, Telephone: (919) 856-4570.. North Carolina.
Dixon, Patricia M., Strom Thurmond Federal Building, 1835 Assembly Street, South Carolina.
Room 307, Columbia, SC 29201, Telephone: (803) 765-5676.
Parks, Mitchell S., 261 Cumberland Bend Drive, Nashville, TN 37228, Tennessee.
Telephone: (615) 736-5911.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Austin Regional Office
Thornberry Building, Suite 121
903 San Jacinto Boulevard
Austin, Texas 78701-2450
Telephone: (512) 482-5461

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spearman, Sam, Room 2509, Federal Building, 700 West Capitol, Little Rock, AR Arkansas.
72201, Telephone: (501) 324-5637.
Davidson, Pamela, 412 North Fourth Street, Room 104, Baton Rouge, LA 70802- Louisiana.
5523, Telephone: (504) 389-0227.
Swearingen, James, P.O. Box 2662, Santa Fe, NM 87504, Telephone: (505) 988- New Mexico.
6557.
Waters, Alvin X. Jr., 5500 North Western, Suite 148, Oklahoma City, OK 73118- Oklahoma.
4011, Telephone: (405) 231-4198.
Ramirez, Roy, Suite 121, Thornberry Building, 903 San Jacinto Boulevard, Texas (south).
Austin, TX 78701-2450, Telephone: (512) 482-5118.
Jacob, Lawrence, Suite 121, Thornberry Building, 903 San Jacinto Boulevard, Texas (north).
Austin, TX 78701-2450, Telephone: (512) 482-5119.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

California Field Office
Oakland Federal Building
1301 Clay Street, Suite 675N
Oakland, California 94612-5217
Telephone: (510) 637-2988

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sosson, Deena R., 1345 J Street, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95814, Telephone: California (northern).
(916) 551-1541.
Lewis, William J., 1345 J Street, Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95814, Telephone: California (central).
(916) 551-2160.
[[Page 13882]]

Oaks, Charles W., 297 Marengo Avenue, Room 100, Pasadena, CA 91102-6020, California (southern).
Telephone: (818) 583-6967.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago Regional Office
111 North Canal Street, Suite 855
Chicago, IL 60606-7204
Telephone: (312) 353-7706

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Casals, Alfred L., 509 West Capitol, Suite 204, Springfield, IL 62704, Illinois.
Telephone: (217) 492-4224.
Henderson, Richard L., Federal Building Courthouse, Room 402, 46 East Ohio Indiana.
Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204, Telephone: (317) 226-6104.
Collison, James L., 100 North Warren Avenue, Room 1018, Saginaw, MI 48606- Michigan.
0867, Telephone: (517) 758-4097.
Arnold, John B. III, 104 Federal Building, 515 West First Street, Duluth, MN Minnesota.
55802, Telephone: (218) 720-5326.
Hickey, Robert F., Federal Building, Room 607, 200 North High Street, Ohio.
Columbus, Ohio 43214, Telephone: (614) 469-7314.
Price, Jack D., 1320 W. Clairemont Ave., Suite 114, Eau Claire, WI 54701, Wisconsin.
Telephone: (715) 834-4079.

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Denver Regional Office
1244 Speer Boulevard, Room 670
Denver, Colorado 80204
Telephone: (303) 844-4714

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Zender, John, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Room 632, Denver, CO 80204, Telephone: Colorado, Kansas.
(303) 844-4902.
Cecil, Robert, Federal Building, Room 593A, 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA Iowa.
50309, Telephone: (515) 284-4746.
Paul Hildebrandt, Federal Building, Room B-02, 608 East Cherry, Columbia, MO Missouri.
65201, Telephone: (314) 442-8084.
Rogers, John C., Federal Building, Room 196, Drawer 10074, Helena, MT 59626, Montana.
Telephone: (406) 449-5074.
Albertson, Warren A., Federal Building, Room 219, Pierre, SD 57501, Nebraska, South Dakota.
Telephone: (605) 224-8280.
Grant, Cornelius P., P.O. Box 1911, Bismarck, ND 58501, Telephone: (701) 250- North Dakota.
4321.
Ockey, Jack, Federal Building, Room 2414, 125 South State Street, Salt Lake Utah, Wyoming.
City, UT 84138, Telephone: (801) 524-5119.

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Philadelphia Regional Office
Curtis Center
Independence Square West
Suite 140 South
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Telephone: (215) 597-4603

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Hammarlund, C.N. Jr., Federal Office Building, Room 453, 450 Main Street, Connecticut, Rhode Island.
Hartford, CT 06103, Telephone: (203) 240-3256.
Flynn, Patricia A., 2568-A Riva Road, Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401-7450, Delaware, Maryland, District of
Telephone: (410) 962-2513. Columbia.
Blitz, Sandford, Federal Building, Room 410D, 40 Western Avenue, Augusta, ME Maine.
04330, Telephone: (207) 622-8271.
Fitzhenry, William A., Boston Federal Office Building, 10 Causeway Street, Massachusetts.
Room 420 (Box 2), Boston, MA 02222-1036, Telephone: (617) 565-7235.
Potter, Rita V., 143 North Main Street, Suite 209, Concord, NH 03301, New Hampshire, Vermont.
Telephone: (603) 225-1624.
Rossignol, Clifford J., 44 South Clinton Avenue, Room 703, Trenton, NJ 08609, New Jersey.
Telephone: (609) 989-2192.
Marshall, Harold J. II, 620 Erie Boulevard West, Suite 104, Syracuse, NY New York.
13204, Telephone: (315) 423-5203.
Pecone, Anthony M., 1933A New Berwick Highway, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, Pennsylvania.
Telephone: (717) 389-7560.
Cruz, Ernesto L., Federal Office Building, Room 620, 150 Carlos Chardon Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands.
Avenue, Hato Rey, PR 00918-1738, Telephone: (809) 766-5187.
Noyes, Neal E., 700 Centre Building, Room 230, 704 E. Franklin Street, Virginia.
Richmond, VA 23219, Telephone: (804) 771-2061.
Davis, R. Byron, Rose City Press Building, 550 Eagan Street, Room 305, West Virginia.
Charleston, WV 25301, Telephone: (304) 347-5252.

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Seattle Regional Office
Jackson Federal Building, Room 1856
915 Second Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
Telephone: (206) 220-7660

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Richert, Bernhard E. Jr., 605 West 4th Avenue, Room G-80, Anchorage, AK 99501- Alaska.
7594, Telephone: (907) 271-2274.
Perot, C. Antony, Phoenix Plaza, Suite 965, 2901 North Central, Phoenix, AZ Arizona, Nevada (except Elko,
85012, Telephone: (602) 640-2541. Eureka and White) Pine
Counties).
[[Page 13883]]

McChesney, Frank, P.O. Box 50264, Federal Building, Room 4106, Honolulu, HI Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa,
96850, Telephone: (808) 541-3391. Marshall Islands, Micronesia,
Northern Marianas.
Ames, Aldred F., Room 441, 304 North 8th Street, Boise, ID 83702, Telephone: Idaho, Nevada (counties of Elko,
(208) 334-1533. Eureka & White Pine).
Berblinger, Anne S., One World Trade Center, 121 S.W. Salmon Street, Suite Oregon.
244, Portland, OR 97204, Telephone: (503) 326-3078.
Kirry, Lloyd P., Jackson Federal Building, 915 Second Avenue, Room 1856, Washington.
Seattle, WA 98174, Telephone: (206) 220-7682.
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Dated: March 8, 1995.
William W. Ginsberg,
Assistant Secretary for Economic Development.
[FR Doc. 95-6261 Filed 3-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-24-P