The Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is offering funding opportunities under its Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program for fiscal years 2016 to 2019. The objective of this program is to assist economically distressed communities in developing regional economic plans and enhancing local capacities for effective economic development initiatives. This funding is crucial for fostering collaborative regional innovation, public-private partnerships, and sustainable economic development, ultimately aimed at improving economic conditions in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include District Organizations, Indian Tribes, state and local governments, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations, with funding amounts typically averaging around $70,000 for planning projects and $64,000 for local technical assistance projects. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, and interested parties can find more information and contact details at www.eda.gov.