Applications are now open for the 2026 Community Investment Training program, a 16-week initiative provided by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond’s Rural Investment Collaborative. This program aims to assist community leaders in Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia in developing investment-ready projects within their local areas.

The training includes a curriculum from Invest Appalachia and focuses on forming effective community partnerships, improving funding pitches, and establishing infrastructure for sustainable projects. Participants who complete the program will receive mini-grants funded by national and regional philanthropic partners to further develop their project proposals.

“The Community Investment Training program has equipped community leaders who have completed the training with the knowledge and guidance to advance their projects and has prepared them to engage with potential project investors,” said Daniel Davis, Richmond Fed group vice president. “Now entering into our third year of the program, we are more eager than ever to help support the economic development of these communities throughout our district by making this training available.”

Ansel Ponder, co-founder of Blue Appalachia Holdings and a 2025 participant in the program, shared his experience: “The most significant thing I learned from the Community Investment Training was learning how to frame your idea from ideation to creation. Learning how to take it one step at a time so when you’re ready to pitch, it’s clear and concise and people can understand exactly what your project is about.”

Applications for the 2026 cohort are being accepted until August 20, 2025. Eligible candidates include community leaders working in development sectors or organizations seeking assistance for new or existing projects. Interested applicants must present ideas requiring diverse investments as part of their application process.

The Rural Investment Collaborative supports economic development by addressing funding challenges faced by small towns due to limited proposal development capacity and uncoordinated funding sources. It facilitates shared learning among community leaders and collaborates with funding organizations to improve access to capital.

While supporting these efforts, it's noted that "the Richmond Fed does not fund or otherwise award grants or participate in the selection of grantees or selection of communities receiving training or technical assistance."