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Growing Our Economy

Creating jobs and increasing prosperity through self-sustaining economic development

TARCOG’s Economic Development Program provides an array of results-oriented services to the region’s local governments to assist with economic development and job creation.

Our Regional Economic Development Strategy

As an Economic Development District (EDD) of the U.S. Economic Development Administration, TARCOG maintains and updates a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the region.

Economic Development Programs & Services

EDA Funding Eligibility

TARCOG’s status as an Economic Development District (EDD) makes projects undertaken by member governments eligible to receive EDA funding, which is available for infrastructure improvements that impact job creation.

Learn more about EDA funding

Appalachian Regional Commission Program

TARCOG is the region’s Local Development District (LDD) for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), whose mission is “to be an advocate for and partner with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.” ARC spends millions of dollars for local infrastructure, economic development, and vocational training projects, and TARCOG works to bring a share of those funds to the region.
Learn more about ARC funding

Revolving Loan Fund Small Business Loans

TARCOG’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) helps local businesses finance expansions or obtain start-up capital. The RLF is administered at the regional level through Neighborhood Concepts, Inc. Eligibility is open to local businesses in DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison, and Marshall counties that employ 100 or fewer employees. Loans are granted only in instances where there will be proven job creation or retention, and amounts are generally $25,000 to $200,000 with some exceptions.
Visit Neighorhood Concepts to learn more about RLF funding

Grant and Loan Application Assistance

TARCOG assists local governments fund development projects by providing them information on funding sources, preparing grant or loan applications, providing statistical data to document specific needs for project funding, and helping to administer funded projects in compliance with federal and state requirements. These grants and loans help communities lure employers, provide water and sewer service to residents, foster tourism, improve transportation, and provide recreational facilities and opportunities.

Areawide Clearinghouse

TARCOG serves as the region’s areawide clearinghouse, coordinating and distributing information about federal aid to local governments. The TARCOG Board of Directors also reviews local government applications for funding to avoid conflicts and duplications.