With Federal Funding Uncertainty, Look Local

By Clint Nessmith, CEO, Resource Development Group 

ACCE’s Horizon 2035 initiative was recently released. As a national fundraising consultant that works solely with chambers of commerce and economic development organizations, I wholeheartedly endorse the focus of the initiative. I am not going to use exactly the same labels as Rebecca Ryan, but talent migration, infrastructure improvement, housing, urban core livability and connectively, and fostering cooperation and collaboration are all key areas that every chamber should consider playing either a primary or supporting role as we look to the next decade.

I’ve been raising money for chambers and EDOs for 22 years, so therefore you won’t be surprised when I say that I look through initiatives similar to this via a revenue development filter. Infrastructure, housing, and fostering urban core livability and connectively are areas that in the past you may have sought federal grants to seed and launch strategy implementation. Unfortunately, this administration has made that funding source, at least temporarily, not a reliable option to pursue. So where does that leave you? Look local!

Every one of the Horizon 2035 pillars are addressing pain points that major employers in your community want addressed. Not doing so, means they will have a more difficult time attracting and retaining talent. Furthermore, community and private foundations tend to also be aligned with these focus areas, and many will want to support programs managed by an organization that is proven to get results. You have an opportunity to be in this space, elevate your organization’s value, and be in position to make major financial requests from these funders. The best part is that this local funding will be more reliable and more flexible in how it can be used than federal dollars.

The key to success, however, will be to engage thought leaders from these organizations early as you develop or fine-tune your strategies. Remember, if they help you build the plan, they will be more inclined to fund the plan! Many of RDG’s clients do this well and have been working on strategies similar to Horizon 2035’s initiatives for years.

In conclusion, as we look to put into action tactics related to the Horizon 2035 pillars, and we navigate the uncertainties of federal funding, it’s imperative to pivot our focus towards local resources and collaborations. By actively engaging local thought leaders, community and private foundations, and major employers, chambers and EDOs can not only address critical pain points but also enhance their organizational value and secure more reliable funding. Horizon 2035 presents an opportunity to create sustainable, impactful change in our communities. Let's seize this moment to build a stronger, more vibrant future together—starting from the ground up, right where we live and work.

Resource Development Group is celebrating 30 years of economic development fundraising consulting for clients across the United States. RDG is highly specialized in that the firm ONLY works with chambers of commerce and economic development organizations and brings to bear a team with deep roots from the industry. Reach out to Clint Nessmith at Clint@RDGfundraising.com with feedback, questions or to explore how RDG can work with you to help you achieve your revenue goals.

At RDG, We Build Organizations that Build Communities! Founded in 1995, Resource Development Group provides customized fundraising and consulting solutions for a diversity of purposes including operations, marketing, advocacy, incentive funds, workforce development, business incubators and special projects. RDG is the only firm in the United States focused exclusively on generating revenue for economic development organizations and chambers of commerce. To learn more about our firm, visit www.rdgfundraising.com.