Summary
Directs government agencies to work together to help struggling towns and Tribal areas get more support and funding for local projects.
What problem does this solve?
Many local and Tribal communities struggle economically and find it hard to get help from the government. This order makes federal agencies coordinate their efforts, making it easier for these communities to access funds and support for development.
What does this order do?
Establishes a whole-of-government approach
Creates a national policy to coordinate all federal agencies to better support local and Tribal leaders in 'left-behind' communities.
Defines eligible 'covered communities'
Specifies which areas are eligible for help, including economically distressed regions, disaster zones, certain rural areas, and communities served by specific federal programs.
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Strengthening federal collaboration on economic development
Creates a central point of contact for federal aid
Directs agencies to develop an interagency technical assistance network so communities can access federal resources through a single point of entry.
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Strengthening federal collaboration on economic development
Gives funding preference to covered communities
Requires federal agencies to give preference in funding opportunities to applications from entities located in and serving the defined covered communities.
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Supporting award access in economically distressed regions
Assists communities with grant applications
Requires agencies to help potential applicants in economically distressed regions understand and apply for federal grants through guidance and technical assistance.
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Promoting disaster resilience and long-term economic development post-disaster
Supports post-disaster economic recovery
Directs agencies to provide targeted support to communities in recently declared disaster zones to help with long-term economic development and resilience.
Who does this affect?
- Economically distressed communities
- Tribal communities
- Rural communities
What is the real world impact?
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Streamlines federal aid for struggling areas
Creates a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to make it easier for economically distressed, rural, and Tribal communities to access federal funding and technical support for local development projects.
When does this start?
This order is effective immediately as of January 19, 2025, with several key actions required within one year.
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Strengthening federal collaboration on economic development
Interagency coordination plan
Within one year, the Secretary of Commerce must work with other agencies to improve community engagement, develop a technical assistance network, and identify overlapping programs.
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Supporting award access in economically distressed regions
Information sharing agreement
Within one year, agencies are instructed to consider signing an agreement to share information and tools to help grant applicants find similar programs at other agencies.