Community Development
Our goal at NWAEDD is to be the vehicle that links the private and public sectors together while working to advance economic development in our communities.
Identification of grant & loan sources for community projects
Bridge to funding and regulatory agencies
Preparation of grant and loan applications
Staff Support for Long-Term Development
There is no “one size fits all” economic development strategy, and the needs of one community may not represent the needs of another. As a result, we strive to provide value in a variety of areas, in an effort to help meet the needs of all the communities of Northwest Arkansas. To accomplish this goal, we offer local governments and community-based organizations help in the following areas:
Strengthening NWAEDD with EDA Support
NWAEDD’s economic development activities are supported in part by the United States Economic Development Administration under EDA’s economic districts planning grant program.
This funding is used to support some of the services we provide to localities and to maintain the NWAEDD’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS contains information on the region-wide economy of our nine county economic development district and lists local and regional development goals and strategies.
Grants Administration
The Grants Administration program develops and implements a wide variety of federal, state and locally funded programs which improve the quality of life for citizens in Northwest Arkansas.
This program assists members by determining eligibility for funding sources, conducting public meetings for citizen input, providing environmental assessments of projects, assuring financial accountability of all funding sources and monitoring programs for compliance.
For over 40 years, staff personnel from the Grants Administration Program have worked with member governments and their representatives to help secure funds from a number of agencies for the construction of vitally important infrastructure improvements and enhanced economic opportunities.
Grants that Grow Communities
We proudly deliver expert grant administration services that empower communities across the region. Through strategic guidance and hands-on support, we’ve helped local governments and organizations secure and implement millions of dollars in state and federal funding, turning visions into reality. Project management and financial accountability have been the cornerstones of successful grant programs, ensuring that every dollar is maximized for long-term impact. These investments have directly improved infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life for residents throughout the region. Past projects have included:
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Senior Centers
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Water distribution
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Water and wastewater treatment
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Storm drainage
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Child care facilities
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Community buildings
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Fire stations and firefighting equipment
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County health units
Entities interested in obtaining additional information regarding the Grants Administration Program can do so by contacting NWAEDD.