County Executive McCoy, County Legislature and Comptroller Rizzo Officially Launch ARPA Community Development Funding Application

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy, the Albany County Legislature and Albany County Comptroller Susan Rizzo today officially opened the application process for the second round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds made available by the County. The $8.3 million grant application program is focused on community development and non-profit support. It includes $1.5 million in funding for the financial recovery of non-profits that were negatively impacted by the pandemic, as well as $6.8 million for new community development initiatives. The $6.8 million Community Development Grant program will accept application in each of the following focus areas: 

“While Albany County continues to comeback stronger than ever in the aftermath of COVID-19, the pandemic has shined a light on health, economic and social inequities that have existed for generations. This $ 8.3 million in ARPA funding is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have a profound impact on our entire county and particularly our underserved communities,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “I’m proud to have worked with our ARPA Executive Committee to develop this application, and I encourage those who are applying to think big in order to help solve some of our most pressing issues.”

Many non-profit organizations in the County lost revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the $1.5 million recovery grant program offers one-time grant funding infusions in amounts that range from $25,000 to $50,000, depending on the organization’s size. The $6.8 Community Development Grant Program will provide funding for new or expanded initiatives in the areas listed above that were identified as priorities to ensure a robust community recovery from COVID-19 and promote a healthy and resilient County for years to come.       

“Albany County is built on the shoulders of community giants; our small businesses and neighborhood organizations. They do the work behind the scenes to provide for our youth, keep our families healthy and safe, educate residents, and expand our opportunities to come together as a community and more. It’s crucial that we invest in our neighborhoods and residents through this second round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants. I’m grateful to the Legislators serving on the Community Development and Public Health Subcommittees who have worked diligently to oversee this process and provide this funding opportunity for our local businesses and organizations. I look forward to seeing the future positive impact that I know this money will have,” said Albany County Legislature Chairman Andrew Joyce. 

Interested applicants should visit the Albany County ARPA web portal at AlbanyCountyARPA.org for additional information and to apply. Community Development and Non-Profit Recovery grant applications are due on January 5, 2024, unless otherwise noted. Physical copies of the applications will be available at the County Office Building located at 112 State Street, Albany, NY 12207.

“As Democratic Majority Leader, I am proud of the millions of dollars the County has allocated for ARPA Community Development Funding Grants. These grant opportunities provide an avenue for the people of Albany County to lend their voices to this process and inform us where the greatest interests are. I am excited to review this round of submissions as a member of the Executive Committee and moving numerous proposals forward for communities throughout Albany County,” said Albany County Legislature Majority Leader Dennis Feeney.

“As a member of ARPA Executive Committee, I want to make certain that funds are allocated to worthy causes. This round of allocations to community development will provide long lasting benefits to our youth, seniors, and underserved communities — groups that were affected in the worst way possible by the pandemic. These allocations are about fostering healthy communities by reducing homelessness, gun violence, domestic violence, drug dependency, and providing essential services to Albany County residents,” said Albany County Comptroller Susan Rizzo.

“This funding aims to be a catalyst for positive change, providing crucial resources to community organizations. I encourage groups to submit proposals focusing on vital program areas such as Behavioral Health, Substance Abuse, Telehealth, Affordable Housing, Community Improvement, Food Access, Violence Prevention, Youth Services, Transportation, and Senior Services. Together, let’s build a foundation for a stronger and more equitable future,” said Albany County Legislative Black Caucus Chairman William Clay.

“Today I join County Executive McCoy, Comptroller Rizzo and my Legislative colleagues in announcing the start of applications for the 2nd round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants in Albany County. As a member of the Executive Committee on ARPA recovery funds, I will work alongside my fellow elected officials to ensure these critical federal dollars are responsibly allocated back into our communities,” said Albany County Legislative Minority Leader Frank Mauriello.

The first $5.25 million round of grants focused on economic recovery, including workforce development and job training, small business support, and arts and tourism organizations. Together, economic recovery grants and community development grants represent more than $13 million in ARPA funds that Albany County is investing directly into the community. 

ARPA funds must be obligated no later than December 31, 2024, and fully expended by December 31, 2026. Funds that are not fully spent by December 31, 2026 are required to be returned to the United States Treasury.