Community Leadership Initiative (CLI)

The Community Leadership Initiative provides funding to eligible applicants from a Leadership Investment Infrastructure Fund at the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Funding for the Department of Community Affairs Leadership Infrastructure Investment Fund is provided through the OneGeorgia Authority. Funds are awarded in two funding cycles per year based on the desired program features and criteria established by the GRDC and the Community Leadership Initiative Design Team.

What is the amount of funding available?

Successful applicants may be awarded seed grants of up to $5,000 for start-up programs or to provide a program for a new audience. Start-up grants may also be awarded to multi county programs where two counties are geographically aligned and can indicate significant compatibility on issues related to economics, socio-demographics, education, etc.

A well-established program can apply for new audience funding to begin a complementary program designed to attract participants who would not normally apply for the established program. Examples of new audiences include: those who have recently moved into a county (retirees), focused populations such as adults from 18-30, or underserved populations (Latino). Funding for start-up and new audience programs is available for two years with a third year at a reduced funding level.

Lesser amounts may be awarded for an enhancement of an existing program. Typical enhancements include increasing the number of scholarships, adding a retreat, or scheduling a visit to the State Capitol to learn about State government and State economic development resources. Tier 1 and Tier 2 sustained and active counties may apply for an enhancement grant to initiate a youth leadership program, alumni sponsored project, development of alumni program or other community based initiatives sponsored by the established adult leadership program. To qualify for this enhancement, the application must include a plan for how adult leadership development programs will be sustained. Enhancement applications must meet all design criteria.

Initial priority for funding is communities that have not conducted at least three adult leadership programs in the last five years. Funds must be used to implement and complete a program within one year of the date of the award.

What criteria must be met to be eligible?

Program Design Elements:

  1. Program goals are focused on economic development using a leadership skill-building approach
  2. Program session topics include a minimum of eight hours (two hours each) on: understanding community leadership, knowing your community (socio-demographics), community leader’s role in economic development, and local governance
  3. Target audience is potential and emerging leaders reflective of the demographic characteristics of the community and inclusive of young adults (ages 18-25)
  4. Stand-alone orientation session or retreat
  5. Minimum of 30 contact hours spread over several sessions
  6. Grant funds subsidize participant costs; however, participants pay a registration fee
  7. Statement of commitment from participants (and participants’ employers if applicable)
  8. 90% attendance to graduate
  9. Support of elected officials(s)

Local Structure:

  1. Steering/advisory committee that is representative of community demographics
  2. Volunteer or paid program planner/coordinator
  3. Evidence of collaboration among several partner entities
  4. Involvement of elected official(s)

Reporting Required at Program Completion:

  1. Budget that demonstrates local investment (local supporting entities and type of in-kind contribution)
  2. List of participants including their contact and demographic information
  3. Final Program Schedule (with dates, topics, session objectives and instructor information)
  4. Compiled Participant Feedback and Coordinator Feedback forms

Round 14 Proposal Forms and Instructions

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