County awards $200,000 for e.development

Eight local nonprofits will receive grant funding from Lane County’s Community & Economic Development Program to support programs and projects focused on economic development.

“There is a wide range of needs across all of our communities when it comes to creating more economic opportunity,” said Jason Harris, Lane County’s Community & Economic Development manager. “We are excited about these grants because they support organizations helping people and communities succeed and thrive – which improves lives and increases prosperity.”

33 eligible applications were submitted and reviewed totaling nearly $1 million. The funding for the grants comes from video lottery funds received by Lane County to support economic development.

Grant applications were accepted in November of 2024. Cities and 501c3 nonprofits serving Lane County were eligible to apply for funding to help attract and expand business investment; support small businesses, start-ups and emerging entrepreneurs; or assist with workforce training. Applicants could request $5,000–$30,000.

A $26,500 grant to McKenzie Community Land Trust will be used for a Blue River “Welcome Station” to spur economic development in the area. The station would include a kiosk offering area history and photos of recovery, a community bulletin board, a portable bathroom, picnic tables, local art, flowers and more. This station seeks to spur tourism in the area and be a homebase for future commercial growth.

Other grants include $26,000 to RAIN Catalysts’ Rural Entrepreneurial Development Program. RARE supports hundreds of Lane County entrepreneurs, aspiring founders, and innovators by connecting them with key resources they need to start and grow their businesses in Lane County.

A $15,250 grant was awarded to Connect Lane County, which partners with urban and rural Lane County schools and businesses to support 700 youth interested in vocational opportunities to explore careers in technology, manufacturing, health, and natural resources through engaging, interactive tours highlighting professionals from diverse backgrounds.