H.R. 3585: Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act of 2025

This bill is known as the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act of 2025. Its main purpose is to create a new pilot program under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, specifically aimed at enhancing business districts, particularly those in low-income, rural, minority, and Native communities. Here are the main components outlined in the bill:

Objectives of the Bill

• The program aims to support organizations that help revitalize business districts by providing technical assistance and other related services to eligible recipients.
• It recognizes the importance of vibrant business districts as crucial to community life, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and local entrepreneurship.
• It acknowledges the need for local business district organizations to access funds and assistance that are currently not readily available to them.

Key Provisions

• Establishment of the Pilot Program: This new pilot program will be implemented by the Secretary of Commerce, focused on supporting business district revitalization.
• Grants: The program will provide grants on a competitive basis to encourage innovative place-based initiatives that enhance business districts.
• Prioritization of Funding: The bill emphasizes broad geographic distribution of funds, prioritizing communities that are economically distressed and those that demonstrate the ability to serve multiple areas.
• Reporting Requirements: Organizations that receive funding will be required to submit annual reports detailing how they used the funds and the impact of their activities.

Definitions

• Business District: Refers to a designated geographic area characterized by small businesses and economic activities, which could be a main street or neighborhood commercial center.
• Business District Organization: A public or nonprofit entity that provides services to promote the district and enhance its environment.
• Capacity Building: Includes training, education, and support aimed at improving the operational capabilities of business district organizations.
• Eligible Subrecipient: An organization that meets specific criteria, such as being a nonprofit or public entity that supports economic development in designated areas.

Implementation Strategies

The Secretary may not delegate the management of this program to regional offices, implying that it will be handled centrally. The goal is to ensure that the selected organizations effectively deliver assistance and have the capacity to report on their activities and outcomes effectively.

Potential Impact on Communities

The legislation aims to empower local business district organizations by providing them the necessary resources to improve their districts, ultimately enhancing local economies and increasing job opportunities. It particularly focuses on aiding underserved areas, creating a framework to support economic revitalization efforts nationwide.

Relevant Companies

• None found