Florida Rural Economic Development Initiative REDI Sptember Meeting

Florida Statutes, establishes the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) to better serve Florida's economically distressed rural communities by providing a more focused and coordinated effort among state and regional agencies that provide programs and services for rural areas. An "economically distressed" county/community is eligible to request a "Waiver or Reduction of Match" of jobs or wage requirements, eligible company criterion, inducement requirement and grants. Each state agency determines which grant programs will allow for a waiver of match based on their annual budget and federal and state guidelines. Learn more about the Rural Definition and Eligibility for REDI.
Responds to specific community needs and requests.
Works with communities to improve their rural economies.
Assists communities in improving access to housing, health care and educational opportunities.
Recommends waivers of provisions of economic development programs on a project-by-project basis.
Undertakes advocacy, outreach and capacity building to improve conditions in rural communities.
Provides direct access and referrals to appropriate state agencies, as well as county and city associations.
Reviews and evaluates the impact of statutes and rules on rural communities and works to minimize adverse impacts.