The St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency is accepting grant applications for its 2014 Community Development and Environmental Improvement Fund.

Eligible applicants include communities, not-for-profit organizations, institutions and other incorporated entities in St. Lawrence County that are planning to undertake a project that will provide a clear and demonstrable economic or community benefit. Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 31.

The RVRDA has allocated up to $506,330 for the Community Development and Environmental Improvement Fund for this year.

When reviewing applications, the RVRDA and the St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency Local Development Corporation will give priority to those projects which most clearly support and advance community development, environmental improvement and employment opportunities. Examples of such activities may include projects that:

• clearly execute provisions of the county’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy or other current county or community development plans.

• directly promote local entrepreneurs and small business development.

• maintain, rehabilitate or extend infrastructure in economic development projects for existing businesses and industries or new businesses.

• utilize Brownfield sites, underutilized or abandoned properties and buildings.

• promote building development or redevelopment for business use.

• support development of research, technology and IT facilities and businesses.

• directly support local energy production, utilization and conservation.

Applicants and their proposed projects must be principally in St. Lawrence County.

The level and form of assistance provided will be on a case-by-case basis and may include loans, grants or other financial assistance. Funds may be used things such as real estate acquisition, building construction and rehabilitation, machinery and equipment, and working capital. Funds generally may not be used to fund normal operating costs.

Applications that propose to use fund commitments to leverage outside funding will score higher.

Info: Kimberly Gilbert, 379-9806, kgilbert@slcida.com, www.slrvra.com.