The Community Impact Fund (CIF) is administered by the Renville County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and is designed to support small-scale, high-impact projects that enhance the physical aesthetics, amenities, and overall capacity of cities and townships within the county. This funding initiative aims to strengthen communities through targeted support for local improvement initiatives.
This competitive grant program offers a maximum award of $1,000 to qualifying townships and cities. Applicants must propose projects that are specific in nature and have a demonstrable potential to enhance the community. The funding may be used for a range of eligible project types, including blight removal, city park enhancements, community amenity installations, community development or capacity-building activities, general community enhancement projects, community-related signage purchases, comprehensive planning, and trail development. However, projects related to community education, recreation programs, or community festivals are specifically excluded from eligibility.
To qualify, applicants must provide a minimum 1:1 financial match from their own funds or other funding sources. Applications must be submitted before the start of project work, and all documentation, including invoices and receipts, must be submitted to the EDA no later than December 10 of the funding year. Only one grant may be awarded per township or city in a single calendar year.
Grant applications are due biannually, on April 1 and October 1, contingent on the availability of funds. The EDA evaluates applications based on several criteria including demonstrated need, potential community impact, the extent of fund leveraging, feasibility of the project plan, and the ability to execute the project in a timely manner.
Interested applicants can access and submit the application either online through the Renville County website or by contacting the EDA directly. For assistance, the EDA can be reached at 320-523-3656 or via email at eda@renvillecountymn.gov.
