Press Release: Applications Open for $200 Million Neighborhood Investment Fund Grant Program

STATE OF WISCONSIN

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION

Tony Evers, Governor

Joel Brennan, Secretary

Applications Open for $200 Million Neighborhood Investment Fund Grant Program

Madison, Wis. – Today, the Evers Administration announced applications for up to $200 million in grants that will make it possible for municipalities across the state to invest in shovel-ready projects and support underserved individuals and communities. Previously announced in August, the Neighborhood Investment Fund Grant program will allow eligible local and tribal governments to invest or partner in major capital projects with an eye towards serving populations that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

“Helping our municipalities invest in innovative public projects is the goal of the Evers administration, as we continue to bounce back from the pandemic,” said DOA Secretary Joel Brennan. “Not only will the Neighborhood Investment Fund Grant program help invigorate our communities, but this program will also help us build back stronger by addressing workforce, transit, childcare and other community needs across Wisconsin.”

The Neighborhood Investment Fund Grant program will provide funding for significant projects that provide long-term benefits to communities while also addressing negative impacts from COVID-19.  The program places special emphasis on projects benefitting communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, especially those in qualified census tracts. The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and will be administered by the Department of Administration.

The competitive grant applications will remain open through November 4, 2021. Private or local partnerships must identify a municipal or local government entity to oversee the grant application, use of grant funds, and all accompanying record-keeping. Grantees will be announced by December 2021, and all selected projects must be completed by end of 2024.

Grant program criteria and upcoming informational webinar details are available on the program website, where applicants can get updates and submit questions. 

Updates will also be provided via the Neighborhood Investment Fund listserv.

For updates on other pandemic-related grant opportunities, sign up for the Badger Bounceback update list.