The Community Empowerment Program is a Presidential Initiative that was enacted into law in August 1993. Areas with high rates of poverty prepare comprehensive strategic plans, with the active participation of low-income residents. The strategic plans must demonstrate how EZ/EC funds will be used to leverage other financial resources and address identified needs.

EZ/EC awards are made through a national competition. Three EZ/EC rounds have been held to date, the first in 1994, the second in 1998, and the third in 2001.

No Empowerment Zones or Enterprise Communities were awards were made in Alaska in Round 1. However, Metlakatla Indian Community was designated as an Enterprise Community in Round 2. This entitles Metlakatla to receive $250,000 in grant funds per year for ten years, or until the program is terminated.

Three other Alaska areas that applied for EZ/EC status in 1998 but were not successful have elected to become Champion Communities. They are: the Delta / Greely area, the Northwest Arctic Borough, and the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. Additional areas that applied for EZ/EC status in 2001 may also elect to become Champion Communities. Champion Communities receive no direct USDA funds. They do receive priority for USDA Rural Development funds, and technical assistance in developing and implementing their plans.

Contact:

Tambi Calvert, EZ/EC Coordinator (907) 747-3506