The Department of Commerce (DOC) Economic Adjustment Assistance Program, often called EAA, is a flexible grant program run by the Economic Development Administration (EDA).
Its main purpose is to help communities across the United States respond to major economic disruptions-whether those disruptions happen suddenly, like a factory closure or natural disaster, or develop over time, like shifts in trade or industry decline.
What Does the EAA Program Do?
The EAA program is designed to give communities the tools and support they need to bounce back from tough economic situations. It does this by funding a wide range of activities, including:
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Technical assistance
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Economic planning
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Public works and infrastructure projects
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Workforce development
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Entrepreneurship support
Communities can use EAA grants to create or update a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), which is basically a roadmap for local economic growth. Once they have a plan, they can also apply for funding to put that plan into action-think building new facilities, upgrading infrastructure, or launching new business support programs.
Who Can Apply?
The EAA program is open to a broad set of applicants. Eligible groups include:
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State and local governments
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Tribal governments and consortia
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Special district governments
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Nonprofit organizations
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Institutions of higher education
This wide eligibility helps ensure that the program can reach all types of communities, from big cities to rural towns and tribal lands.
What Kinds of Projects Get Funded?
EAA is known for its flexibility. Projects can range from market and environmental studies to major construction and site preparation. Some common uses of EAA grants include:
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Rebuilding after a natural disaster
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Supporting communities hit by the closure of a major employer or military base
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Helping regions adapt to new environmental regulations
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Funding infrastructure improvements, such as roads, water systems, or broadband
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Capitalizing Revolving Loan Funds to help local small businesses access capital
The program also supports special initiatives, like disaster relief and recovery, and has provided targeted funding for communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic or changes in the coal industry.
Why Is the EAA Program Important?
Economic shocks can leave entire regions struggling with job losses, declining tax revenues, and uncertainty about the future. The EAA program is built to respond quickly and effectively, giving communities the resources they need to stabilize and rebuild. By supporting both planning and implementation, EAA helps communities not only recover from setbacks but also become more resilient and competitive in the long run.
How Does the Application Process Work?
Most EAA funding is awarded through a competitive process. Communities and organizations submit proposals that show how their project aligns with EDA’s investment priorities, such as innovation, workforce development, and economic resilience. The EDA reviews these proposals and selects projects that will have the greatest impact.
Real-World Impact
EAA funding has helped hundreds of communities across the country. For example, after a major plant closure, a town might use EAA funds to retrain workers for new industries and attract new businesses. After a natural disaster, EAA grants can help rebuild critical infrastructure and support long-term recovery.
