Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP)

The Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) Program is a funding initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED). This program is designed to promote collaboration among regional economic development service providers across the state of Pennsylvania. Established under the authority of the Commerce Law (Act of May 10, 1939), PREP plays a crucial role in implementing Pennsylvania’s Ten-Year Strategic Plan for Economic Development. The initiative seeks to deliver coordinated, client-focused economic development services that are responsive and efficient. The program enables local partnerships to support businesses and entrepreneurs while strengthening regional economies. PREP targets regional networks of economic development organizations—including Industrial Development Organizations (IDOs), Local Development Districts (LDDs), and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)—to form partnerships that integrate service delivery. At least one organization from each core service provider type must be involved, except where LDDs do not exist. These networks are expected to cover multiple counties and provide a unified work plan and budget that outlines their strategic approach for the year. Through this coordinated effort, each business inquiry is intended to be handled promptly and effectively by the appropriate partner. Funding may be used for a wide range of services, including personnel costs, travel, equipment, IT solutions, coordinated marketing, and strategic planning. Programs can target Pennsylvania’s priority industries—Agriculture, Energy, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Robotics, and Technology—and also support sectors like tourism, technology, and retail. Specific activities can include business financing, workforce development, site selection, broadband access, and entrepreneurial support. PREP Coordinators, with a maximum allowable allocation of $45,000 per region, will oversee regional collaboration, data reporting, and serve as liaisons with DCED. Applicants must be part of an approved PREP regional network and submit a consolidated or multi-partner application through the DCED Electronic Single Application portal. Each partner seeking direct funding must apply separately. The application must include a comprehensive work plan, budget narrative, projected metrics, and designated points of contact. Required components include details on client services, service evaluations, referral processes, and training in the CRM system (ExecutivePulse). Applicants must adhere to guidelines regarding allowable and disallowed expenses, such as prohibitions on using funds for lobbying or audit costs. Proposals are evaluated based on the clarity and impact of their work plan, alignment with state strategic goals, collaboration among partners, use of the CRM system, and their potential to generate jobs and private/public financing. PREP does not require matching funds, but leveraging of other resources is encouraged. Disbursements occur on a cost-reimbursement basis, with monthly or quarterly invoicing. All costs must be documented and approved by DCED. Budget modifications are allowed with prior approval, and invoices are due by September 1, 2025. Work plans and budgets must be submitted no later than 30 days after the August 2024 release of these guidelines. Mid-year and final reports will be required, using DCED-provided templates, but no program audit or closeout report is mandated. Program contacts include Jennifer Lench at the DCED Technology & Entrepreneurship office, reachable via email at [email protected] or by phone at 717-720-7345. Each PREP network is expected to utilize DCED’s regional branding and marketing tools, with one consolidated application per region preferred.

DCED recommends consolidated contracts and emphasis on direct client services aligned with the state’s strategic plan.