For many cities, securing funding for critical projects can be a challenge. However, there is a powerful tool available that could help communities access the resources they need: Community Project Requests, also known as Congressionally Directed Spending or earmarks. But what are these funding opportunities, and how can cities take advantage of them?
In 2024, House Members were allowed to submit 15 requests, while Senate offices did not have a submission cap.
What Are Community Project Requests?
Community Project Requests — previously referred to as “earmarks” — are one-time funding requests that can be spent over a one-year project period. Unlike a regular grant application, which are submitted to federal agencies, cities submit a project proposal directly to their Senators and respective House Member. In 2024, House Members were allowed to submit 15 requests, while Senate offices did not have a submission cap. If the project is selected for support by a Congressional office, the proposal is evaluated by the Appropriations Committee and is voted on by the entire Congress to be included in the final spending bills passed by Congress and signed by the President. The number of projects ultimately selected by the Appropriations Committees in the House and Senate are limited by the amount of funding available for community projects each year.
These funds can be directed toward a variety of initiatives such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, economic development and flood mitigation. The aim is to help local governments — as well as nonprofits and other entities — initiate pilot programs, address projects that may need closing dollars or help purchase equipment costs that are otherwise difficult to fund through typical state or federal grant programs.
The House and Senate leadership create their own rules depending on the political party in power. For instance, in 2024 the House of Representatives did not accept requests for issues around mental health, substance abuse, or physical health programs. The rules are reviewed and subject to change by the Chairs of the Appropriations Committees each new fiscal year
The earmarks process was once highly controversial, leading to a temporary ban in 2011. However, Congress brought these back with the revamped “Community Project Requests” with new transparency measures to improve accountability and equitable distribution in 2021.
How to Apply
While the application process may vary slightly between Congressional offices, the steps to submit a Community Project Request generally follow a similar framework:
- Identify a Project: The project must meet certain criteria to be considered for earmarks. Guidance for each of the 12 Appropriations subcommittees can be found here. Congressional offices prioritize projects that align with federal priorities, such as infrastructure, public safety, or economic development. It’s essential to choose a project that will have a significant impact on the community and meets an identified need.
- Reach Out to Your Congressional Office: Contact the office of your city’s U.S. Representative or Senator early. You can find out who your representative is here. Unlike federal grants, community project requests are personally reviewed and submitted by your elected representative’s office. Ensuring that they have time to ask questions and cultivate buy-in to the project will increase the likelihood that your project is submitted. Community Projects are typically due between January and March. However, the application is only released 2-3 weeks prior to the deadline. NLC recommends that cities reach out to their elected representatives prior to the end of the year to begin discussions.
- Demonstrate Strong Community Support: Congressional offices want to see that the project has broad community backing. Gather letters of support from local organizations, elected officials (such as Councilmembers, state legislators, and neighboring communities), businesses, community groups and local nonprofits to show how the project aligns with the needs and values of the community. Demonstrating community support is essential in receiving funds.
- Prepare Your Application: A successful application includes a clear project description, an explanation of the need, a detailed budget and any other supporting materials that demonstrate why the project deserves funding. Be specific about how the funds will be used and the outcomes you expect. NLC has created a worksheet that your City can use to prepare your application:
Community Project Requests are a vital resource for cities looking to enhance public services and infrastructure. By understanding the process and preparing early, your city can tap into this funding to build a stronger, more vibrant community.
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