Federal and state governments are preparing to roll out unprecedented investments in funding for transportation, water, parks and trails, emergency and weather readiness, energy efficiency, housing, and other elements of economic and cultural vitality. West Central Initiative is one of many organizations across the state that are gearing up to assist our communities in applying for these dollars. So are our partners at the University of Minnesota.
As a small city, you may not have the time and resources to identify where to start, which project to prioritize, and gather the necessary resources and data to submit a project proposal. The Empowering Small Minnesota Communities Program (ESMC) is a good place to start. Projects of any size that will provide benefit to the community are encouraged to seek out this partnership.
There is currently an open application process for communities with a population of 15,000 or less, tribes, community organizations, and non-profits that are considering community sustainability and resilience projects which could benefit from the technical expertise of the University of Minnesota and a slate of partner entities
This process is as simple as filling out an inquiry form for consideration. From there, University staff will contact you to discuss your idea or project. The deadline for the first round of submissions is February 14, and project assistance for selected projects will begin this summer. If you aren’t quite ready for the February 14th deadline, there will be additional submission dates announced in the future.
More details are available on the website and in a recording of their informational webinar. West Central Initiative Community Planner Mark Kaelke is working with the University of Minnesota staff that work in this region and can talk with you about your idea and the program.
Connect with Us
Mark Kaelke
Community Planner
mark@old.wcif.org
218-998-1633 | 800-735-2239
