The River Valley Redevelopment Agency is accepting applications for its 2020 Community Development and Environmental Improvement Program. Eligible applicants include communities and not-for-profit organizations in St. Lawrence County that are planning to undertake a project that will provide a clear and demonstrable economic, community or environmental benefit. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on April 16, 2020.

The RVRDA has allocated up to $100,000 for this year’s program. There is no minimum application amount, but the maximum that may be applied for is $20,000 though the RVRDA retains the discretion to make exceptions to this maximum if it determines that the circumstances so warrant.

When reviewing applications, the RVRDA and the St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency Local Development Corporation will give priority to those projects which most clearly support and advance community development, environmental improvement, and employment opportunities and projects that propose to use CD/EI resources to leverage funds from federal, State, and regional programs, foundations, or other such external sources.

Applicants and their proposed project(s) must be principally located in St. Lawrence County. The level and form of assistance provided by the Community Development and Environmental Improvement Fund will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may include loans, grants or other types of financial assistance. Funds may be used for a number of purposes including real estate acquisition, building construction and rehabilitation, machinery and equipment, and working capital. Funds generally may not be used to fund normal operating costs.

For further information about the program, or to request an application, please contact Kimberly Gilbert at the St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency Local Development Corporation at 315-379-9806 or kgilbert@slcida.com. The application can also be accessed via the web at www.slcida.com.