The Lower Neches Valley Authority’s Economic Development Program (EDP) supports projects that strengthen communities, improve regional quality of life, and promote long-term economic vitality throughout the LNVA service area.
Through the EDP, LNVA partners with local governments, schools, nonprofit organizations, and community-based entities to help fund projects that provide meaningful public benefit, including infrastructure improvements, educational initiatives, environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community enhancement projects.
Applications are reviewed based on community impact, project feasibility, regional benefit, and alignment with LNVA’s mission and service priorities.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for consideration, projects must:
- Be located within the Neches River Basin or Neches-Trinity Coastal Basin
- Provide a measurable public or community benefit
- Align with one or more EDP program objectives related to economic vitality, community development, education, infrastructure, workforce development, or public services
- Be sponsored by an eligible governmental, educational, nonprofit, or community-based entity
- Demonstrate the ability to complete and maintain the project for its intended purpose
Additional requirements may apply depending on project type and funding category.
Projects requesting $10,000 or more require a minimum 20% cash match.
Grant recipients are required to comply with all reporting, maintenance, and closeout requirements established by LNVA.
Application Process
Funding availability for the Economic Development Program is determined annually by the LNVA Board of Directors.
When funding is authorized, applications are accepted and reviewed while funds remain available. Applications are evaluated based on overall community benefit, project readiness, regional impact, and alignment with LNVA priorities.
Projects incorporating sustainability, energy efficiency, water conservation, or waste reduction components may receive additional consideration.
Applicants selected for funding will enter into an Economic Development Program Agreement outlining the approved scope of work, funding conditions, reporting requirements, and project deliverables.
Due to limited funding availability, submission of an application does not guarantee award approval.
Applicants with an active EDP grant must successfully complete project closeout requirements before becoming eligible for future funding consideration.
Small Application Category
Small category requests are intended for community-focused initiatives and limited-scope projects requiring modest funding assistance.
Examples may include:
- Community programs and nonprofit initiatives
- Educational materials, equipment, or support services
- Sponsorships supporting regional economic or community development efforts
- Training, workshops, or strategic planning activities
- Public outreach and community engagement efforts
Maximum funding under this category shall not exceed $1,000 per occurrence.
Medium Application Category
Medium category requests support projects with broader community impact or operational significance.
Examples may include:
- Park, playground, or public access improvements
- Community enhancement and beautification projects
- Educational and workforce development programs
- Studies related to economic growth, public services, or infrastructure planning
- Projects supporting public safety, recreation, transportation, or community development
Maximum funding under this category shall not exceed $10,000 per occurrence.
Large Application Category
Large category requests are intended for substantial capital, infrastructure, or regional improvement projects that provide significant public benefit.
Examples may include:
- Water and wastewater infrastructure improvements
- Public facility improvements
- Main Street and downtown revitalization projects
- Public communications and accessibility improvements
- School, healthcare, park, or community facility enhancements
- Property acquisition associated with redevelopment or economic growth initiatives
Maximum funding under this category shall not exceed:
- $100,000 for water and wastewater infrastructure projects
- $50,000 for all other eligible projects
Learn more: https://lnva.dst.tx.us/economic-development-program