13 C.F.R. § 301.8 Proposal evaluation criteria.
Title 13 - Business Credit and Assistance
EDA will screen all proposals for the feasibility of the budget presented and conformance with EDA statutory and regulatory requirements. EDA will assess the economic development needs of the affected Region in which the proposed Project will be located (or will service) as well as the capability of the proponent to implement the proposed Project. Furthermore, EDA will select proposals competitively based on strategic areas of interest and priority considerations identified in the applicable FFO. EDA may also consider the degree to which an Investment in the proposed Project will satisfy one (1) or more of the following criteria: (a) Is market-based and results driven. An Investment will capitalize on a Region's competitive strengths and will positively move a Regional economic indicator measured and evaluated by EDA on a performance matrix system, such as EDA's Balanced Scorecard or other performance matrix. These Regional economic indicators include measures such as an increased number of higher-skill, higher-wage jobs, increased tax revenue, or increased private sector investment resulting from an Investment. (b) Has strong organizational leadership. An Investment will have strong leadership, relevant Project management experience and a significant commitment of human resources talent to ensure a Project's successful execution. (c) Advances productivity, innovation and entrepreneurship. An Investment will embrace the principles of entrepreneurship, enhance Regional industry clusters and leverage and link technology innovators and local universities to the private sector to create the conditions for greater productivity, innovation, and job creation. (d) Looks beyond the immediate economic horizon, anticipates economic changes and diversifies the local and Regional economy. An Investment will be part of an overarching, long-term Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy that enhances a Region's success in achieving a rising standard of living by supporting existing industry clusters, developing emerging new clusters or attracting new Regional economic drivers. (e) Demonstrates a high degree of local commitment. An Investment will exhibit: (1) High levels of local government or non-profit Matching Share and private sector leverage; (2) Clear and unified leadership and support by local elected officials; and (3) Strong cooperation between the business sector, relevant Regional partners and Federal, State and local governments. (f) Other criteria as set forth in the applicable FFO.
Title 13: Business Credit and Assistance
PART 301—ELIGIBILITY, INVESTMENT RATE AND PROPOSAL AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Subpart E—Proposal and Application Requirements; Evaluation Criteria
§ 301.8 Proposal evaluation criteria.
