Summary
U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration – Distressed Area Recompete Pilot Program (Recompete)
The United States Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) has invested in economically distressed communities to create and connect people to good jobs. The program targets areas where prime-age (25-54 years) employment significantly trails the national average, with the goal to close this gap through large, flexible investments.
On August 5, 2024, the EDA announced awards for six communities that were Finalists in Recompete (Phase 1). The awards – totaling $184 million – will support implementing innovative strategies to create good-paying jobs, bolster economic growth, and dismantle barriers limiting workforce participation.
Reinvest Birmingham
The Reinvest Birmingham Recompete Plan, led by the City of Birmingham, was awarded $20 million to support the persistently distressed neighborhoods of North Birmingham, Northside, Pratt, and Smithfield. Recompete funding will provide in-demand workforce training to residents in the target neighborhoods through partnerships with a variety of training providers, educational institutions and community-based organizations. The funding also includes support for entrepreneurs, expanding and improving transportation and accessible childcare in the target neighborhoods. Reinvest will create paths for residents to the good jobs committed by Birmingham-area employers.
How to Submit the Proposal Packet
Proposal submissions will be accepted by email or mail. Regardless of how Proposals are submitted, all Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 pm Central Standard Time on November 20, 2026. Late proposals, or any parts thereof, will not be considered.
Submission by Email
Emailed submissions must be delivered in PDF format to the following address with the noted subject:
Email: reinvest@birminghamal.gov
Subject: [COMPANY NAME] – Workforce Training RFP Submission Attach three PDF documents labeled as follows:
- Executive Summary – [Your Organization Name]
- Budget Narrative – [Your Organization Name]
- Supplemental Application Materials – [Your Organization Name]
Submissions by Mail or Hand
Mailed or hand-delivered proposals must be delivered to:
Archie Stewart
Reinvest Plan Officer
Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity City of Birmingham, 4th Floor
710 North 20th Street
Birmingham, AL 35203
Note: Clearly label your envelope: Workforce Training Provider Response – [Your Organization Name]