EDA releases information on upcoming $200M Recompete Pilot Program

The Distressed Area Recompete Pilot Program (Recompete Pilot Program)—authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act— will invest $200 million toward interventions that spur economic activity in geographically diverse and persistently distressed communities nationwide. The program will support economic revitalization in distressed communities across the country. Specifically, this program targets areas where prime-age (25-54 years) employment significantly trails the national average and is intended to close the gap through flexible, bottom-up strategy development and implementation investments. Applicants should demonstrate how benefits from the program are shared equitably across all affected populations.

EDA will deploy funding through two-phases. Phase 1 investments can be used for strategy development activities, while Phase 2 investments can support a wide range of implementation activities across workforce development, business and entrepreneur development, infrastructure, and additional planning, predevelopment, or technical assistance. In Phase 1, EDA anticipates approximately $6-12 million in Strategy Development grants. In Phase 2, applicants can apply for larger awards for implementation.

Eligibility mapping tool

EDA has released a mapping tool to help potential applicants determine their eligibility for funds through this program. Click here to access the tool, which includes a user-friendly map and instructional materials.

If you have questions about program eligibility or using the Mapping Tool, please contact your local Economic Development Representative or contact the program at Recompete@eda.gov.

Program timeline

The Phase 1 notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) will be released in the coming month with a ~3-month application window. Announcement of Phase 1 winners and the release of the Phase 2 NOFO is expected this Winter, where applicants with approved Recompete Plans will be invited to submit a Phase 2 application. EDA concluded a Request for Information (RFI) and Tribal Consultation in March 2023. Aggregated findings from these processes will be released with the Phase 1 NOFO.

What can applicants do now to prepare for the NOFO release?

1. Explore the Mapping Tool to determine if your community is eligible for this program. If you are in a region that the map indicates is ineligible, applicants may submit data showing eligibility that EDA will verify once the application opens.

2. Visit EDA.gov to learn more about the Recompete Pilot Program and sign up for EDA’s communications. If you have questions, please reach out to Recompete@eda.gov .