Richmond Fed, Speech: A Unique Moment for Small Towns

“Today, I want to talk about some of the funding that is available, the barriers small towns face in accessing this funding and what those of us who want to make a difference can do to reduce these barriers.”

“Communities need help building their capacity, and they need it now. They need help finding and training leadership. They need help writing grant applications that meet funder specifications. They need help acquiring match funding. They need help distributing and administering funds effectively. And they need help assessing impact.”

“So, let’s help them. The stimulus money is coming, so let’s leverage states, localities, foundations and local organizations to get the money where it is most needed. I’m struck by the experience we all just had with rent relief and the varying degrees of success communities had in delivering that money to its intended recipients.”