State awards more than $3.7 million in ARPA funding to help revitalize northern Missouri communities

The Department of Economic Development (DED) announced today that it has awarded a total of more than $3.7 million through the second round of the Community Revitalization Grant Program for six projects in northern Missouri. The program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is focused on investing in communities of all sizes to support local priorities, encourage economic recovery, and build resilience for the future.

"We’re proud to invest in the future of our state’s north region through the second round of the Community Revitalization Grant Program,” said Governor Mike Parson. “As we continue to deliver on our commitment to a stronger economy for all Missourians, we look forward to the benefits this program will provide. Projects funded through these grant awards will result in improved lives, stronger communities, and brighter futures in our state.”

The second round of the Community Revitalization Grant Program was launched in May 2023 to ensure an equitable distribution of funds for Missouri’s north region, which did not exhaust the $10 million available during the first round. The program’s second round awarded competitive grants to applicants, including municipalities and nonprofit organizations, to benefit communities affected by the pandemic. Grant awards will fund a variety of projects, such as downtown property renovations, historic district redevelopment, and community facilities.

“These grants are helping Missourians prosper by strengthening communities and our entire economy,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development. “Following the economic challenges of recent years, we’re glad to help Missouri’s northern communities. In every region of our state, projects funded through the Community Revitalization Grant Program are building a better, more resilient future.”

“Our team is excited to see the results of the Community Revitalization Grant Program as it improves lives statewide,” said Kim Froemsdorf, Director of Federal Initiatives for the Department of Economic Development. “Communities of all sizes have experienced significant hardships in recent years, and those in northern Missouri are no exception. We’re glad to provide assistance through this program while creating new opportunities in both rural and urban areas alike.”

Details on recipients of the Community Revitalization Grant Program’s second round are available here.

To learn more about DED’s ARPA-funded grant programs, visit ded.mo.gov/arpa.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.