If a neighborhood is proposing more than one project, should they be on the same application form?

No. If you are submitting multiple projects, each should be in its own project application.

If a neighborhood has a project with multiple components that may include other (eg state or private) funding from multiple sources, should the application for the NEOC grant include all parts of the project?

We encourage applicants to include all components of a project, including other funding sources. This will help us gain a full picture of the project. 

Will certain neighborhoods receive any advantage?

No. We encourage all neighborhoods in New Haven to apply.

Are prior round award recipients eligible to re-apply?

Prior award recipients are eligible to apply for a different project.

If we are receiving state funds for a project will that make us ineligible for this funding?

Other state funding for a project does not disqualify an applicant for eligibility. 

How do you define "shovel ready?"

We define shovel-ready as projects where other sources of funding are secured, and site design and permitting are well on their way.

Are planning and design costs an eligible use for NEOC funds?

Design costs are an eligible use for funds. However, priority will be given to projects that are “shovel ready” and beyond the design process. Please note that we prefer that a majority (more than 95%) of program funds are used for hard costs. It is preferable that soft costs are funded from non NEOC sources.

Are applications being judged by their strength on one evaluation criterion (e.g., economic impact, shovel readiness) or their strength on all evaluation criteria?

Applications will be evaluated by their strength on all evaluation criteria listed in the Notice of Funding Availability. An application that is strong on multiple criteria will therefore be more competitive than an application that is strong on only one criterion.

Who will be reviewing the applications?

EDA staff will be reviewing the applications. All award decisions are at the discretion of the EDA Administrator, consistent with the scoring criteria listed on the NOFA.

Are there time limits within which the grant funds must be spent, or project completed?

Funds must be committed by 12/31/24 and fully expended by 12/31/25 due to nationwide ARPA rules. 

Can a particular neighborhood receive more than one grant?

Multiple applications from a single neighborhood will be considered. As you prepare to apply, make sure you focus on Quality vs. Quantity: submit one or two well-articulated applications, rather than multiple submissions that are not particularly strong.

I have another question that was not answered above or on the grant program’s website. Where can I have my question answered?

Please submit any further question to the application portal in Bonfire. We will update this document periodically with answers to common questions we receive.