The Under Secretary for Rural Development (RD) is seeking applications, for the Rural Development Cooperative Agreement Program, herein referred to as the Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge (RPIC), from eligible entities to provide technical assistance and training to rural communities for placemaking planning and implementation.
The Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge (RPIC) provides planning support, technical assistance, and training to communities to foster placemaking activities in rural communities. Funds can help enhance capacity for broadband access, preserve cultural and historic structures, and support the development of transportation, housing, and recreational spaces.
Applicants must demonstrate existing and proposed partnerships with public, private, philanthropic, Tribal and community partners to provide assistance in implementing the placemaking plan. This funding announcement supports the delivery of technical assistance and training in visioning, planning, and assisting communities to implement placemaking efforts in rural communities under the Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge.
Priorities
Assisting rural communities recover economically from the impacts of the COVID–19 pandemic, particularly disadvantaged communities;
Ensuring all rural residents have equitable access to RD programs and benefits from RD funded projects; and
Reducing climate pollution and increasing resilience to the impacts of climate change through economic support to rural communities.
Funding Information
The amount available for RPIC in FY 2022 is up to $4 million.
The maximum award amount for any one applicant is $250,000.
Eligibility Criteria
Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
City or township governments
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Special district governments
State governments
County governments
Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
Private institutions of higher education
Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
