Research and Evaluation Program

Through the R&E program, EDA supports the development of tools, recommendations, and resources that shape Federal economic development policies and inform economic development decision-making. R&E program investments provide critical, cutting-edge research and best practices to regional, state, and local practitioners in the economic development field, thereby enhancing understanding and implementation of economic development concepts throughout the country. EDA also regularly evaluates the impacts and outcomes of its various programs as a means of identifying policy and program modifications that will increase the Agency�s efficiency and effectiveness.

Pursuant to PWEDA, eligible applicants for and eligible recipients of EDA investment assistance under this NOFO include a(n): a. District Organization; b. Indian Tribe or a consortium of Indian Tribes; c. State, county, city, or other political subdivision of a State, including a special purpose unit of a State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions; d. Institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; e. Public or private non-profit organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a State; f. A private individual or g. For-profit organization

EDA will review all Research and Evaluation applications for the feasibility of the budget presented and conformance with EDA statutory, regulatory requirements, and those enumerated in the applicable federal funding opportunity (FFO). Applications must meet EDA's investment policy guidelines as set forth in 13 C.F.R. � 301.8, the requirements of 13 C.F.R. part 306, as applicable, and other requirements as provided in the applicable FFO.

Statutory Formula: Title 13, Part 306, Subpart A,Public Law 108-373.EDA encourages cost sharing, and applications that include matching funds may be more competitive than those that do not. Generally, the amount of an EDA award may not exceed 60 percent of the total cost of the project. However, for RNTA awards, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development (Assistant Secretary) has the discretion to establish a maximum Investment Rate of up to 100 percent where the project: (i) Merits, and is not otherwise feasible without, an increase to the Investment Rate; and (ii) Will be of no or only incidental benefit to the Eligible Recipient[1]. If an Applicant is requesting an EDA investment rate of greater than 60 percent, the applicant must provide the basis for the request. Applicants must clearly and in detail describe their justification for the request within their...