New Bill Would Make Federal Economic Development Grants Easier for Rural Communities to Access

Rural communities across America could soon find it much easier to apply for federal economic development grants — if a new bipartisan bill becomes law.

Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the EDA Short Form Application Act, which would require the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to create a shorter, simpler grant application process specifically designed for rural towns and small communities.

The Problem This Fixes

Right now, many rural communities miss out on federal EDA grants simply because the paperwork is too complicated and time-consuming. Small towns often lack the staff needed to complete lengthy federal applications — even when they have strong projects that would benefit from funding.

"Too many rural communities have great ideas to grow their local economies but get stuck navigating complicated federal paperwork," Senator Kelly said. "By creating a short form application and working directly with rural leaders, we're making it easier for communities to access the resources they deserve."

What the Bill Would Do

• Require the EDA to create and use a short form application for rural community grants
• Have the EDA consult directly with rural stakeholders to design the process
• Reduce the length and complexity of application materials
• Remove questions and documentation requirements that don't apply to rural communities
• Make the review criteria clearer and more transparent

Who This Affects

The bill targets rural communities and municipalities that currently struggle to compete for EDA funding. Organizations like the National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) and the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) both voiced strong support for the legislation.

"Simplifying the EDA's application processes will directly improve access to critical funding for small, under-resourced rural communities," NREDA said in a statement.

What You Can Do Now

The bill has not yet passed — it was just introduced in the Senate. However, rural economic development organizations and community leaders can:

• Contact your Senators to express support for the EDA Short Form Application Act
• Explore existing EDA grant programs at eda.gov — funding is already available for economic development projects
• Check GrantNavigation for other federal grants your community may qualify for today

Source: Senator Mark Kelly's official press release