The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District has had a great 2022. We couldn’t serve the community and make the difference we do without our dedicated employees who are compassionate, innovative, responsive, and effective in all that they do. They especially like participating in our "Holiday Door Decorating Contest" over the holidays. As new opportunities and challenges present themselves, our organization looks forward to working with and supporting our communities and municipalities in 2023. We will continue to play the role of a community leader and deliver programs that are intended to foster both community and economic growth. We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support, and we wish you a happy and joyful holiday season.

A second required public hearing concerning the implementation of an Arkansas Community and Economic and Development Program (ACEDP) grant for Monroe County Mid Delta Health Systems Renovation Project will be held at the Monroe County Road Shop, 717 N. 11th Street, Clarendon, AR 72029 on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of this hearing is to inform citizens of the current scope and progress of the ACEDP project; discuss any changes or impacts involving financing sources, user fees or beneficiaries that have occurred since the first public hearing conducted on March, 8, 2021, accept oral and written comments regarding the project; and, discuss any potential impacts upon citizens that may/will result during the course of the project. All residents of Monroe County are encouraged to attend this hearing and participate in the community development process. Individuals requiring physical or sensory accommodations including interpreter service, Braille, large print, or recorded materials, please contact Judge Larry Taylor at P.O. Box 222, Clarendon, AR 72029, lgt1951@gmail.com, 870-747-3921 by December 7, 2022. Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking individuals provided that 3-day notice is received by the Monroe County Judge’s Office.

The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. is accepting sealed bids for Workers Compensation Insurance. Bid specifications are available at 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, AR 72086 or by calling Fay Cox at (501) 676-2721 or Arkansas Relay Service 1-800-285-1121 (voice), 1-800-285-1131 (TDD), from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by writing/visiting the CAPDD Administrative Offices at 902 North Center Street, Post Office Box 300, Lonoke, Arkansas 72086. Bids must be received by 3:00 pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. Bids will be opened at Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc., 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, Arkansas on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 10:00 am. Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. is an “Equal Opportunity Employer/Program” and “Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.”

The Central Arkansas Planning & Development District, Inc. (CAPDD) is accepting sealed bids for their Business Policy/Contents Insurance. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) package may be obtained by contacting Fay Cox at (501) 676-2721, Arkansas Relay Service 1-800-285-1121 (voice), 1-800-285-1131 (TDD), from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, or by writing/visiting the CAPDD Administrative Office at 902 North Center Street, P. O. Box 300, Lonoke, Arkansas 72086. Sealed bids are to be mailed or hand delivered to CAPDD, Inc., 902 North Center Street, P.O. Box 300, Lonoke, AR 72086 and clearly labeled “Business Policy/Contents Insurance Bid, Attn: Fay Cox”. Sealed bids must reach the CAPDD Administrative Office no later than 4:00 pm, Wednesday, October 12, 2022. Bids will be opened on Thursday, October 13, 2022 at 9:00 at Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. located at 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, Arkansas. Central Arkansas Planning and Development District is an “Equal Opportunity Employer/Program” and “Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individual with disabilities.”

The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (AHHP) grant applications period opened on September 5, 2022 for the Historic County Courthouse and Historic Preservation Restoration grants. This period includes the optional pre-application, Letter of Intent (LOI). The LOI allows AHPP an opportunity to provide project development and assistance to identify best preservation practices according to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation (SOIs). The LOI request information regarding the property and proposed project. The Letter of Intent (LOI) and final application are available online through the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism and the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC) portal.  Please note the following deadlines: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 - LOI application deadline Friday, January 27, 2023 - Courthouse application deadline Friday, March 3, 2023 - Historic Preservation Restoration application deadline The AHPP grants encourage and promote preservation of Arkansas' historic resources providing financial assistance for restoration of historic properties. If you require assistance, please contact a member of our Community and Development Team by calling the office at 501-676-2721.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced the opening of the FY2022 Application Period for the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program. FEMA’s Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) can be found at www.grants.gov. The Arkansas Natural Resources Division (ANRD) is soliciting towns, cities, and counties to prepare and submit Notice of Intent (NOI) forms for the FMA grant program. A NOI form is attached for your use. All NOIs must be submitted to ANRD on or before October 14th, 2022, by 5:00 PM. Only complete NOIs will be accepted and reviewed. ANRD strongly encourages interested applicants to participate in FEMA’s webinar series focused on the FY2022 FMA NOFO. A listing of the seminars is attached for your use. Also attached is a description of potential projects. Additional detailed information regarding the FMA program can be found at: • https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/floods and • https://www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/natural-resources/divisions/water-management/floodplain-management/fma/ PLEASE NOTE: ONLY TOWNS, CITIES, AND COUNTIES MAY SUBMIT A NOI. PROPERTY OWNERS MUST CONTACT THEIR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND ASK TO BE INCLUDED IN THE APPLICATION. If you require assistance, please contact a member of our Community and Development Team by calling the office at 501-676-2721. Please refer to the document below to view the scope of this funding opportunity.

The FY22 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) funding opportunity and are accepting Notices of Intent (NOIs) now through Friday, September 23rd. The BRIC grant program seeks to shift the federal focus from reactive disaster spending toward research-supported, proactive investment in community resilience so communities are better prepared. FEMA’s FY22 BRIC priorities: Incentivize natural hazard risk reduction activities that mitigate risk to public infrastructure and disadvantaged communities, as referenced in Executive Order 14008 - Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad Incorporate nature-based solutions, including those designed to reduce carbon emissions Enhance climate resilience and adaptation Increase funding for the adoption and enforcement of the latest published editions of building codes Encourage hazard mitigation projects that meet multiple program priorities All jurisdictions that have a FEMA approved hazard mitigation plan may be eligible to compete for funding in the BRIC program. Plans must be current at the time of application submittal to FEMA as well as at the time of award. Jurisdictions that do NOT currently participate in a FEMA approved hazard mitigation plan are eligible to apply through the BRIC Program to receive funding towards developing a hazard mitigation plan. In FY21, FEMA selected 53 competitive projects from 19 states. The link below provides a summary of each so that you can get an idea of the types of projects that are being selected for funding. Please note that while community saferooms are eligible, they are NOT a priority under the BRIC grant. https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/building-resilient-infrastructure-communities/after-apply/fy-2021-subapplication-status/selections FEMA BRIC Webinars FEMA is offering a series of BRIC webinars now through October. You must register in order to attend the sessions. Visit the link below for more information. https://femacqpub1.connectsolutions.com/content/connect/c1/7/en/events/catalog.html?folder-id=231780422&from-origin=fema.connectsolutions.com FEMA SCORING PROCESS BRIC subapplications go through a two-part scoring process. In addition, a National Technical Review (NTR) team reviews all eligible project subapplications for cost-effectiveness and engineering feasibility. More information is attached about the qualitative and technical evaluation criteria. If you require assistance, please contact a member of our Community and Development Team by calling the office at 501-676-2721. Please refer to the document below to view the scope of this funding opportunity.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a new federal program that provides assistance to low income families to offset the monthly cost of internet service and to subsidize the purchase of devices. The benefit provides: Up to $30/month discount for internet service; Up to $75/month discount for households on qualifying Tribal lands; and A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider. WHO IS ELIGIBLE? A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below: Participates in any of the following assistance programs: SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline; Participates in any of the following Tribal specific programs: Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or Tribal Head Start (income based); Participates in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision; Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider's existing low-income internet program. HOW TO ENROLL Go to www.AffordableConnectivity.gov to submit an application or print a mail-in application Contact your preferred participating provider to select an eligible plan and have the discount applied to your bill. Some providers may have an alternative application that they will ask you to complete. Eligible households must both apply for the program and contact a participating provider to select a service plan.

Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $3 million in American Rescue Plan grants to support Arkansas as it recovers from the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The EDA investments announced today are: Garland County, Arkansas, will receive a $1 million grant to construct the Garland County portion of the Southwest Trail, a multi-county bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will connect Little Rock, Arkansas, to Hot Springs, Arkansas, attracting tourists and boosting outdoor recreation in the region. The project will be matched with $250,000 in local funds. Saline County, Arkansas, will receive a $1 million grant to restore the historic Old River Bridge over the Saline River as part of the Southwest Trail, attracting tourists and boosting outdoor recreation in the region. The project will be matched with $250,169 in local funds. City of Marion, Arkansas, will receive a $1 million grant for construction of the Sultana Disaster Museum attracting new visitors to the eastern Delta region. The project will be matched with $250,000 in local funds and is expected to create 90 jobs and generate $200,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates. “President Biden knows that the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sector is a critical driver for our nation’s economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “These EDA investments will create new tourism destinations across the state of Arkansas, attracting new visitors to the state and providing opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive.” “The Economic Development Administration is dedicated to working with communities to support their locally-driven strategies to recover and rebuild from the pandemic,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “We are pleased to partner with Garland and Saline Counties and the city of Marion to develop new opportunities to boost outdoor recreation and tourism, diversifying the regional economy.” “A deep and rich history, natural beauty from the flats of the Delta to the Ozarks, and a wide variety of hiking, biking, and other outdoor recreation options for adventurers of all skill levels are some of the reasons we call Arkansas the Natural State,” said Governor Asa Hutchinson. “This investment will enhance our efforts to preserve Arkansas’s story and conserve our natural resources for Arkansans, and further strengthen our tourism industry, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who travel here from other places every year.” These projects are funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in grants to all 50 states and territories in 2021. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022. These projects were made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Central Arkansas Planning and Development District (CAPDD), the West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District (WCAPDD), and the East Arkansas Planning and Development District (EAPDD). EDA funds CAPDD, WCAPDD, and EAPDD to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. (CAPDD) is seeking sealed bids for Janitorial Services for their office located at 324 Pershing, North Little Rock, Arkansas. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) packages may be obtained by contacting Fay Cox at (501) 676-2721, Arkansas Relay Service 1-800-285-1121 (voice), 1-800-285-1131 (TDD), from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, or by writing/visiting the CAPDD Administrative Office at 902 North Center Street, Post Office Box 300, Lonoke, Arkansas 72086. Sealed bids are to be mailed or hand delivered to Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc., P. O. Box 300, 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, AR 72086 and clearly labeled “Confidential IFB Janitorial North Little Rock Office Attn: Fay Cox”. Sealed bids must reach the CAPDD Administrative Office no later than 4:00 pm, Wednesday, July 27, 2022. Bids will be opened at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. located at 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, Arkansas. CAPDD is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. (CAPDD) is seeking sealed bids for office space in the City of North Little Rock, Arkansas. Office space will be utilized by the CAPDD staff for the provision of an Arkansas Workforce Center under the auspices of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Such services include application taking, testing, assessment, counseling, etc. Office space of a minimum of 6,000 square feet will be considered. Invitation for Bid (IFB) packages may be obtained by contacting Fay Cox at (501) 676-2721, Arkansas Relay Service 1-800-285-1121 (voice), 1-800-285-1131 (TDD), from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by writing/visiting the CAPDD Administrative Offices at 902 North Center Street, Post Office Box 300, Lonoke, Arkansas 72086. Notice: Sealed bid deadline has been extended from May 11, 2022 to May 31, 2022. Sealed bids must reach the CAPDD Administrative Office in Lonoke no later than 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 31, 2022 and should be clearly marked “Confidential: Fay Cox, IFB North Little Rock Office Space”. Late proposals will not be accepted or considered. Bids will be opened at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. located at 902 North Center Street, Lonoke, AR. The CAPDD is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

DRA’s investments will improve basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, workforce development, and small business development in the Mississippi River Delta and Alabama Black Belt regions. The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) opened the 2022 funding cycle for the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP). SEDAP provides direct investments into community-based and regional projects to support basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, workforce development, and small business development with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. Under federal law, at least 75 percent of DRA funds must be invested in economically distressed counties and parishes. The Delta Regional Authority’s mission is to help create jobs, build communities, and improve the lives of the 10 million people who reside in the 252 counties and parishes of the eight-state DRA region. Through SEDAP funding, DRA upholds its mission by providing targeted community development investments essential for regional sustainability and economic growth. Communities and organizations in Lonoke, Monroe, and Prairie Counties encouraged to work with their Central Arkansas Planning and Development District to prepare and submit SEDAP applications. To apply, please visit funding.dra.gov. The deadline to submit applications is June 5, 2022. All necessary information for application consideration, state-specific funding allocations, funding eligibility requirements and guidelines can be found in the 2022 SEDAP Manual on the Delta Regional Authority website https://dra.gov.

The City of Conway has been awarded a grant of $155,000.00 through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), which provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a major disaster declaration. The primary goal of the HMGP is to ensure that the opportunity to take critical mitigation measures to reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future disasters is not lost during the disaster reconstruction process. The HMGP goes above and beyond simply repairing the damage. The HMGP will help fund a wide range of new projects that reduce hazard vulnerability and the potential for future damage, within the limits of state and federal guidelines. Unlike FEMA's more well-known disaster assistance programs, which help pay for the permanent repair and restoration of existing facilities, the HMGP goes beyond simply repairing the damage. The HMGP will help fund a wide range of new projects that reduce hazard vulnerability and the potential for future damage, within the limits of state and federal guidelines. They city specified the funds will be used to conduct a flood drainage study for the City of Conway Downtown area, which is prone to flash flooding, and will result in the development of a mitigation strategy to reduce flooding. For more information regarding the Hazard Mitigation, please contact Leigh Pool at 501-676-2721.

Project: Central Arkansas Workforce Development Board is seeking an independent consultant to conduct One-Stop Operator monitoring of the Central Arkansas Workforce Development Area. The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District (CAPDD) is the current One-Stop Operator. The scope of the monitoring will be limited to the role of the One-Stop Operator during the PY2018, PY2019, PY2020 and PY2021 years. Background: Under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the Department of Labor (DOL) published Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) WIOA NO. 15-16. The Letter describes the groundwork for the One-Stop Operator selection process. In addition to the selection process, TEGL 15-16 requires Local Workforce Boards to conduct oversight and monitoring of its One-Stop Operator. The Central Arkansas Workforce Development Board (CAWDB) has chosen to procure an independent consultant in order to conduct the monitoring process. Responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) should be submitted electronically to the chair of the CAWDB at mallgood@mwlaw.com in a pdf format. Proposals will be transferred to members of the CAWDB’s One-Stop Monitoring Committee who will then open, evaluate, and select an independent consultant to conduct the One-Stop Operator monitoring process. The successful bidder will have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in WIOA One-Stop Operator as well monitoring practices and procedures. The CAWDB reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. A contract for the accepted proposal will be based upon the factors described in this RFP. The CAWDB reserves the right to select a provider that is the lowest and best bid with experience and knowledge of the One-Stop Operator function under WIOA as a primary factor for this monitoring. Questions regarding this Request for Proposal should be emailed to Michele Allgood at mallgood@mwlaw.com or via phone 501-688-8874. Proposal Requirements: Proposals must be received by the deadline: May 23, 2022 at 4:00 pm. Proposals should be e-mailed to the chair of the CAWDB at mallgood@mwlaw.com. In addition, the subject line should be “CAWDB RFP, CONFIDENTIAL PROPOSAL.” Proposals must include a dollar amount bid for monitoring services. Proposals must include entity/company/individual’s qualifications and relevant experience regarding One- Stop Operator Monitoring. In addition, please list previous and/or similarly completed projects. Proposals must include an explanation of the entity/company/individual’s understanding of a One-Stop Operator’s role under WIOA. Proposals must include acknowledgement that the entity will adhere to the roles/responsibilities set forth in this Request for Proposal Package. Proposals must include entity/company/individual name, address, and phone number. In addition, the proposal must designate an individual who will serve as its point of contact, including that person’s phone number and email address. Failure to comply with any of the proposal requirements may result in a disqualified proposal. Monitor Roles/Responsibilities: Conduct One-Stop Operator monitoring using the appropriate monitoring tool. Consultant must use the relevant/approved State monitoring tool used by the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services. On-site review of actual files, policies, procedures, customer observation, operations observation, interviews of key managers and staff. Conduct the monitoring within the timeframe. Develop a final monitoring report that clearly states which documents were reviewed, who was interviewed, and the final results from the monitoring process. Must submit an attestation that it has examined compliance with the requirements of WIOA, the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR part 200 and 2 CFR part 2900, and the terms and condition of the contract/agreement with the one-stop operator. Provide copies of the final report to the Central Arkansas Workforce Development Board as well as the Central Arkansas Planning and Development District. Follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and customs. Maintain confidentiality of information that are, or may be, deemed confidential or sensitive information. Project Steps: · Receive notice of award · Submit any questions · Sign contract · Meet with the CAPDD to conduct an entrance interview · Use the Monitoring appropriate monitoring tool to complete the monitoring process · Develop a final report · Submit final report to the CAWDB and CAPDD Timeline: Task Complete By: April 10 & 13, 2022 - Request for Proposals advertisement May 9, 2022 - Deadline for submitting questions. All questions must be submitted by 4:00 pm CST and sent to mallgood@mlaw.com. Answers will be posted on the website May 16, 2022 - Answers to all questions will be posted on the website. May 23, 2022 - Request for Proposal submission deadline May 31, 2022 - Committee reviews proposals and makes a selection June 1, 2022 - Consultant is notified of award June 3, 2022 - Consultant signs and submits contract June 20, 2022 - Consultant conducts entrance interview June 20 – July 1, 2022 - Consultant conducts monitoring review process July 15, 2022 - Consultant submits final report (with attestation) to CAWDB and CAPDD

We would like to take a moment to wish you a happy holiday season! Additionally, we want to hear from you! We have launched these surveys to document the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic across the six-county region. (Faulkner, Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Prairie and Monroe) “We know every organization and individual has a unique story to tell from their experience over the past year and a half. We want to hear it to better understand the impacts of COVID, as well as how to emerge stronger, better prepared, and resilient” said Trevor Villines, Disaster Recovery Coordinator. Information obtained from the surveys will be used to create the COVID-19 Resiliency Strategic Plan which will be developed by the Central Arkansas Resiliency Taskforce. Please take a few minutes to complete the appropriate Resiliency Survey! This will allow us to be better prepared to help you in the event of a future disaster. Resiliency Survey for Businesses and Organizations Resiliency Survey for Residents

A second required public hearing concerning the implementation of an Arkansas Community and Economic and Development Program (ACEDP) grant for the City of Ward Wastewater Rehab Project will be held at the City of Ward Council Chambers located at 405 Hickory Street, Ward, AR 72176 on November 15, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of this hearing is to inform citizens of the current scope and progress of the ACEDP project; discuss any changes or impacts involving financing sources, or beneficiaries that have occurred since the first public hearing conducted on March 11, 2019. Oral and written comments will be accepted regarding the project; and, discuss any potential impacts upon citizens that may/will result during the course of the project. All residents of the City of Ward are encouraged to attend this hearing and participate in the community development process.

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has released a new course in the Contractor Compliance Institute for federal and federally assisted construction contractors and subcontractors (“contractors”). The new course, Construction Compliance Review Course for Contractors, examines OFCCP’s compliance processes and procedures that apply to federal and federally assisted construction contracts to help covered construction contractors better understand their regulatory requirements. The course has five modules and the following key topics: OFCCP’s three laws in the context of federal and federally assisted construction contracts Applicable posting, listing, notice and recordkeeping requirements Participation goals for women and minorities on construction sites and how these goals are measured The 16 affirmative action steps as well as Section 503 and VEVRAA written affirmative action program requirements applicable to covered construction contractors OFCCP is committed to providing meaningful compliance assistance to contractors to ensure they know how to comply with their equal employment opportunity obligations. Find additional compliance assistance resources on OFCCP’s website.

The SBA, continues to work hard to deliver assistance to America’s entrepreneurs. They have been inspired by the grit and determination they have witnessed as our nation’s small businesses have pivoted and adapted over the past 18 months. The American entrepreneurial spirit is stronger than ever. However, with the Delta variant, the struggle is far from over. Small businesses across the country continue to need financial relief to get to the other side of this crisis, and the SBA is here to help. As part of President Joe Biden’s recently announced COVID-19 Action Plan, the SBA has improved the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to better meet the needs of small businesses, especially those hardest hit industries and smallest entities that still need relief. The low-interest and long-term COVID EIDL program has helped millions of small business owners survive the impacts of the pandemic with its flexibility and affordability – allowing entrepreneurs to hire and retain employees, and purchase needed equipment and inventory. Now, the program even more flexible to meet your needs. The SBA has increased the amount of funding that can be borrowed from $500,000 to $2 million for qualified applicants. They have authorized COVID EIDL funds to be used to pay and prepay commercial debt and make payments on federal business debt in recognition of the financial reality many small businesses are facing during this crisis. They have also made sure that small businesses have time to recover from COVID-19 impacts by further deferring payments – so you won’t need to start repaying these loans for two years after your loan origination date. In addition, to help ensure our smallest businesses can access this crucial capital, they created a one-month exclusive window for businesses requesting $500,000. During this time, approvals and disbursements will focus 100% on loans $500,000 or less until October 8th, upon which approvals and disbursements will be opened up to all loan sizes. Finally, to ease the COVID EIDL application process for small businesses, the SBA has established more simplified affiliation requirements to model those of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Their commitment is to serve all small businesses efficiently while also maintaining strong protections against fraud and abuse, and as such we have worked hard to improve operations. They are also dedicating themselves to improving their customer service response and the application user experience. As of today, they have increased COVID EIDL application processing capacity from an average of 2,000 to more than 37,000 applications per day. They will continue to accept applications for the COVID EIDL program until December 31, 2021 or until funds run out. They encourage you not to delay and apply today, as well as forward this email to any fellow business owners you think may qualify for the program. Please note all business owners who have received previous loans through the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), or Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) can still benefit from COVID EIDL. For no-cost assistance for the COVID EIDL program, and every other SBA program, go to www.sba.gov/local-assistance and connect with a local resource partner near you.

September 2021 is National Preparedness Month. Disasters can take many forms and the financial cost of rebuilding after a disaster can be overwhelming. If you’re prepared for emergencies, you’ll be in a better position to recover and continue operations when a disaster strikes. During National Preparedness Month, take the important steps to keep your small business, employees and family safe when a disaster strikes. National Preparedness Month (NPM) is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” For the first time in its history, the Ready Campaign, in partnership with the Ad Council, identified the Hispanic community as a key audience, and will launch a series of Public Service Advertisements specifically designed to encourage preparedness within the underserved demographic. Weekly Themes Each week in September, the campaign will focus on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families and communities. Week 1 September 1-4: Make A Plan Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the Coronavirus. Week 2 September 5-11: Build A Kit Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control. Week 3 September 12-18: Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness Natural disasters don’t wait for a convenient time. Preparing for them shouldn’t wait either. Start today by signing up for alerts, safe-guarding important documents, and taking other low cost and no cost preparedness actions to lessen the impact of disasters and emergencies for you and your family. Week 4 September 19-25: Teach Youth About Preparedness Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

Today, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) launched the STEM Talent Challenge to support programs to train science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) talent and fuel regional innovation economies across the nation. The $2 million STEM Talent Challenge will provide funding for work-and-learn programs to increase America’s STEM-capable workforce in emerging and transformative sectors such as space commerce, aeronautics, digital manufacturing, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity. Competition applicants may request up to $250,000 for implementation of a 24-month workforce program that complements their region’s innovation economy. The deadline to apply is Oct. 12, 2021. (Here is a helpful one-pager.) Click here for the Notice of Funding Opportunity. For more information, visit www.eda.gov/OIE/STEM.

Today, FEMA will post funding notices for two hazard mitigation grant programs for $1.16 billion. The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) and the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grants provide funds to states, local communities, tribes and territories for eligible mitigation activities to strengthen our nation’s ability to build a culture of preparedness. These programs fund projects that invest in a more resilient nation, reduce disaster suffering and avoid future disaster costs. The application period opens on Sept. 30 and the funding notices will be available later today on Grants.gov. Eligible applicants must apply for funding using FEMA Grants Outcomes, the agency’s grants management system. Submit applications in FEMA Grants Outcome Portal no later than 3 p.m. ET on Jan. 28, 2022. Applications received by FEMA after this deadline will not be considered for funding. This year’s BRIC grant amount is $1 billion. BRIC’s guiding principles have been revised to reduce future losses and promote equity, including prioritizing assistance that benefits disadvantaged communities as referenced in line with the administration’s Justice40 Initiative. Scoring criteria for the competitive grant program has been adjusted to incentivize mitigation actions that consider climate change and future conditions, populations impacted and economically disadvantaged rural communities. The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant amount this year is $160 million. The program will use the Centers for Disease Controls’ Social Vulnerability Index as a selection factor in its competitive scoring process. This means underserved populations will receive more points for projects that benefit their communities. This follows the Aug. 2 historic announcement of the post-disaster $3.46 billion in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance for hazard mitigation measures across the 59 major disaster declarations issued due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Nearly $5 billion in new funding opportunities is now available to help communities prepare for extreme weather and climate-related disasters. FEMA’s grant programs can help strengthen our nation’s ability to reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from future disaster damage. Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grant Program The BRIC Program seeks to categorically shift the federal focus from reactive disaster spending toward research-supported, proactive investment in community resilience so when the hurricane, flood or wildfire comes, communities are better prepared. In this application cycle, $1 billion is available in BRIC grant funds. View the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) at: Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-21-MT-047-00-99. Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Grant Program The National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 establishes the goal of reducing or eliminating claims under the National Flood Insurance Program through long-term mitigation actions. For the FMA program, the agency’s predetermined funding priorities include flood mitigation planning and efforts for repetitive as well as severe repetitive loss properties. In this application cycle, $160 million is available in FMA grant funds. View the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) at: Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-21-MT-029-000-99.

Communities Across the Country will be able to Apply for $3 Billion in Funding Immediately Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced six programs, collectively called Investing in America’s Communities, that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) will execute to equitably invest the $3 billion it received from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan. This EDA investment is the largest economic development initiative from the Department of Commerce in decades and will help communities across the country build back better. Investing in America’s Communities includes: Build Back Better Regional Challenge ($1 billion) will capitalize on American ingenuity and American workers by providing a transformational investment to regions across the country to revitalize their economies. Good Jobs Challenge ($500 million) is designed to help get Americans back in good-paying jobs. The program will develop and strengthen regional workforce training systems and sector-based partnerships with a focus on programs targeted at women, people of color and historically underserved communities. Economic Adjustment Assistance ($500 million) grants will help hundreds of communities across the nation plan, build, innovate, and put people back to work through projects tailored to meet local needs. Indigenous Communities ($100 million) program will work hand-in-hand with Tribal Governments and Indigenous communities to develop and execute economic development projects they need to recover from the pandemic and build economies for the future. Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation ($750 million) program will focus on revitalizing the hard-hit travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries and accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on these sectors. Statewide Planning, Research and Networks ($90 million) grants include funding for state planning efforts as well as grants to build Communities of Practice to extend technical assistance to support EDA’s work with grantees. As part of the six programs, EDA is making a Coal Communities Commitment, allocating $300 million to ensure support for these communities as they recover from the pandemic and create new jobs and opportunities, including through the creation or expansion of a new industry sector.

For Immediate Release LONOKE – The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Arkansas State University Delta Center for Economic Development, and Arkansas Economic Development Institute have partnered to offer a COVID-19 Recovery and Resiliency Workshop in North Little Rock. The 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. workshop will be Thursday, July 29, at Ben E. Keith Foods Mid-South Distribution Center, 1 Ben E Keith Way. The workshop will feature key information, resources, and training for community leaders and small business owners on how to build resiliency for future economic disruptions. “The workshop is a great opportunity to learn about the resources available to help communities build resiliency for future disasters or economic changes,” said Andrea Allen, executive director of the A-State Delta Center for Economic Development. “I urge both community leaders and small business owners in central Arkansas to attend and take advantage of this opportunity.” Jeff Amerine, founder of Startup Junkie in Fayetteville, and Jeff Standridge, managing director of Conductor in Conway, will provide the keynote address, “Building Sustainable Venture Ecosystems in Unexpected Places.” Some of the other presenters include: Randy Zook, president and CEO of the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas; April Campbell, U.S. Department of Commerce; Dr. Michael Pakko, state economic forecaster; Steven Porch, executive broadband manager for the AEDC Arkansas Rural Connect Program; and retired Col. Rob Ator. The session topics will include the current state of the region’s economy, critical role of local leaders in community and economic development, overview of federal funding and initiatives, innovative business practices fueling recovery efforts, assessment and implementing communications strategies, developing a business continuity plan, training available through Arkansas’s Small Business and Technology Development Centers, grant-writing resources, navigating ARPA, the broadband gap, and retail as a catalyst for economic development virtual training. A live question-and-answer session will be conducted by Retail Strategies/Downtown Strategies Consulting Group. Jim Youngquist, executive director, Arkansas Economic Development Institute, said, “The workshop will be the first of eight around the state that will build upon the historic documentation of the impact that COVID 19 has had on the business, industry, healthcare, and education sectors of our state to begin the creation of recovery and resiliency strategies to help our communities, regions and our state be more able to deal with natural and human disasters moving forward." “It is our goal through this Recovery & Resiliency Workshop to provide our community leaders and business owners a direct link to a toolbox of resources and partnerships,” said Rodney Larsen, executive director, Central Arkansas Planning and Development District. “We hope conversations sparked from this process will empower community and business leaders to implement innovative approaches to recovering from COVID-19 while also becoming more resilient for future disasters and pandemics.” The workshop and luncheon are being offered free of charge, but pre-registration is required by close of business Friday, July 23. Seating is limited. Registration is available below. A-State Delta Center for Economic Development and AEDI received funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce – Economic Development Administration for the Arkansas COVID-19 Recovery and Resiliency Initiative to document the historical impact of COVID-19 on the state of Arkansas and to provide training and regional planning for recovery and resiliency efforts. More information about this initiative can be found at covidrecovery.youraedi.com. Additional workshop sponsors include: Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Retail Strategies, Arkansas Small Business Technology and Development Centers, and Ben E. Keith Foods Mid-South. About A-State Delta Center for Economic Development The Delta Center for Economic Development is the community and economic development outreach center for Arkansas State University. Designated a University Center by the U.S. Department of Commerce – Economic Development Administration, the Delta Center works to provide a comprehensive approach to serving businesses, government and citizens of Arkansas. About Arkansas Economic Development Institute AEDI provides research, technical assistance, and training to support and enhance economic development and thus improve the quality of life/place throughout the State. About Central Arkansas Planning and Development District The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District (CAPDD), founded in 1968, is a non-profit, multi-county, multi-purpose, and multi-funded Planning and Development Organization that serves Faulkner, Lonoke, Monroe, Prairie, Pulaski, and Saline Counties. The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District is dedicated to providing our member municipal and county governments with grant writing, grant administration and staff services.

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Division of Rural Services has awarded community grants totaling $356,802.26 to 36 counties and communities across the state. “These grants go a long way in helping our smallest communities leverage funds to help meet critical infrastructure needs,” Department of Commerce Secretary Mike Preston said. “Strong, vibrant communities allow citizens to enjoy a better quality of life, and they make our state more attractive to new and expanding businesses which benefits all Arkansans.” The Division of Rural Services awarded the grants to Arkansas counties and communities through two programs: the Rural Community Grant Program and the County Fair Building Grant Program. Twenty-nine counties and communities received a total of $331,144.65 through the Rural Community Grant Program. Under this program, applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in matching funds for community development and fire protection projects. The Division of Rural Services awarded 7 counties a total of $25,657.61 through the County Fair Building Grant Program. Under this program, county fairs located in counties with a population of less than 55,000 are eligible for up to $4,000 for construction, renovation or general improvements of buildings or purchase of items shown to directly improve the building or the services that the county fair association may provide. Both the Rural Community Grant Program and the County Fair Building Grant Program require a 50 percent match for counties and communities to qualify. The next cycle deadline for the Rural Community Grant Program is August 12, 2021. For more information about grants administered by AEDC, visit www.ArkansasEDC.com. Rural Community Grant Recipients: Avoca Fire Department — $15,000 Bono — $10,975 Collins-Cominto Fire Department – $14,550 Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department — $15,000 DeAnn Volunteer Fire Department — $1,767 England – $15,000 Galatia – $15,000 Grant County – $15,000 Hazen — $15,000 Hector — $8,229.50 Hickory Flat Fire Department — $15,000 Hwy 35 South Volunteer Fire Department — $15,000 Jacksonport — $2,750 Lavaca Fire Department — $9,400.65 Leachville — $15,000 Marshall — $15,000 McNab — $7,465 McNeil Fire Department — $9,069 Moro Fire Department — $7,323.50 Murfreesboro — $15,000 Oakland Promise Land Fire Protection District — $8,490 Ogden — $5,150 Omaha Rural Fire Association — $15,000 Round Mountain Volunteer Fire Department — $9,087.50 Rover Fire Department — $9,675 Scranton Rural Fire Department — $15,000 Thornton — $12,612.50 Ulm – $15,000 Water Valley Volunteer Fire Department – $4,600 County Fair Building Grant Recipients: Baxter County Fair Association — $3,126.15 Clark County Fair Association — $2,531.46 North Franklin County Fair Association — $4,000 Little River County Fair Association — $4,000 Nevada County Fair Association — $4,000 Poinsett County Fair Association — $4,000 Scott County Fair Association — $4,000

The Arkansas Humanities Council is now accepting applications for the ARP Act Grant. This recovery funding is available to support at-risk humanities positions and projects at museums, libraries and archives, historic sites, historical societies, colleges and universities, and other cultural nonprofits that have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The National Endowment of the Humanities has provided $759,297 to implement the America Rescue Plan Grant program in Arkansas. The funding will help ensure the survival of Arkansas cultural institutions and assist as they from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maximum awards of up to $25,000 are available. The funds are designated for operational expenses and strategic planning and capacity building and are available to nonprofit humanities-based cultural organizations in Arkansas. The American Rescue Plan Grant provide immediate funds to museums, historical societies, college and universities, and other humanities-based cultural organizations to help stabilize and provide funding for them to maintain essential functions and retain core personnel. Information about eligibility, grant applications, and guidelines can be found here. Applications must be submitted on or before 11:59 p.m. August 15, 2021.