FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 31, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT:
Genevieve Scholl
Deputy Executive Director
541.374.2401
gscholl@portofcascadelocks.org

CASCADE LOCKS, OR – The Port of Cascade Locks announces the launch of its Economic Development Grant Program, an initiative designed to support economic development, enhance recreation and tourism, and strengthen community partnerships within the Port district. “We are proud to introduce this program, which reflects the Port of Cascade Locks’ commitment to fostering economic growth that directly benefits our community,” said Port Executive Director Jeremiah Blue. “This initiative would not have been possible without the vision and dedication of our commissioners, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the program aligns with our community’s values and priorities. In partnership with MCEDD, we look forward to supporting innovative and impactful projects that will strengthen our region and build a thriving future for Cascade Locks.”

The program is structured to provide funding for projects that align with the goals of the Port’s 2024-2029 Strategic Business Plan and demonstrate measurable benefits to the community. The funding is available through two categories:

1. Small Grants Program – Awards up to $10,000.
2. Large Grants Program – Awards from $10,001 to $50,000.

For the fiscal year 2024-25, the Port will distribute up to $150,000 in total funding. Eligible projects may include downtown revitalization, tourism and recreation enhancement, public safety improvements, infrastructure projects, and emergency planning initiatives.

Eligibility & Requirements
Applicants must be non-profits, businesses, or government entities operating within the Port district and in good standing with the State of Oregon. Projects must align with the Port’s Strategic Business Plan objectives. Grant funds may not be used for political activities, inherently religious activities, or athletic activities of individual schools and community sports teams. Direct overhead costs, regular operating expenses and salaries are ineligible for funding.

Grant recipients are required to provide a minimum 20% match and adhere to reporting requirements, including progress updates and final project reports.

Program Details

• Small Grants Program: Open to new and established entities with awards disbursed in two phases—50% upfront and 50% on a reimbursement basis.
• Large Grants Program: Open to entities established for at least two years with funding disbursed on a reimbursement basis (80% of approved expenditures). Large Grant applicants must provide three letters of community support.

Key Priorities for 2024-25
The Port Commission has established the following priorities for this year:

• Downtown revitalization
• Enhanced tourism and recreation
• Public safety

Projects must be completed by December 31, 2025, with final project reporting due within 30 days of the project completion date.

Application Process
Applications are accepted online only. Applicants can access the online portal, view a program information video, and get full program details on the Port’s website at https://www.portofcascadelocks.gov/port-of-cascade-locks-economic-development-grant-program (short url: https://bit.ly/POCLGrantInfo.)

The Port will begin accepting application submissions starting January 2, 2025. The online application portal will remain open until the $150,000 grant fund is fully awarded, or the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2025, whichever comes first.

The Port has contracted with the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) to administer the grant program. MCEDD staff will review all applications for completeness and eligibility and score each proposal based on the scoring criteria set by the Port commission. Award recommendations will be reviewed, and final approval of each award will be made by the Port commission during a regularly scheduled public meeting.

For More Information
For specific questions about the application process please contact Port Deputy Executive Director Genevieve Scholl via email to gscholl@portofcascadelocks.gov.