Application (Section 5)

Applications are now closed

This form is currently closed for submissions.

Instructions for Online Application

We suggest that you have all attachments (in PDF form) ready to upload before beginning application. Each section can be completed and submitted separately. Once submitted, each section is final. Hit submit only after you have reviewed your application and you are satisfied with the submission.

You can download the Word version of the document here.

Download a Sample City Council Resolution here.

Find all the resources distributed at the January 11 Training Workshop here.

Application Process and Selection Criteria Overview

Applications are disseminated to mayors of all eligible municipalities in Alabama (cities between 2,000 and 18,000 in population). Learn more about ACE Communities here: ACE Definition

The application form consists of questions designed to determine a community’s commitment and capacity to support ACE. Information is requested about: community planning, organization for community and economic development, leadership development, education, infrastructure, health care, and quality of life. The application will also require letters of support from local leaders (local governing body, chamber of commerce, and other community organizations).

SUBMIT BY Monday, March 11, 2019

The ACE Selection Committee reviews each application and selects communities as candidates for participation.

The ACE Board of Directors reviews candidate communities and approves/disapproves as participants in ACE. Communities not selected will be notified and receive appropriate feedback on their application.

Selection decisions will be guided by the criteria of commitment and capacity, but will entail some subjectivity. Consideration will be given to issues such as serving diverse populations and ensuring regional balance.

The number of communities selected for ACE participation is based on available resources.

Please direct any questions related to your application to: Sidney Hoover (Sidney.Hoover@outlook.com) or (205) 567-3248

Maranda Weathers: Maranda.Weathers@outlook.com – (334) 790-1526

About ACE

What is ACE?

Partners working together to provide Alabama communities with the community development programs and tools needed to ensure their long term success.

What We Do:

Providing technical assistance to select communities in order to strengthen their long-term economic success

ACE’s comprehensive three-phase approach targets communities with populations ranging from 2,000 to 18,000. Using a competitive application process, communities are selected based on the level of local commitment to the ACE program and the community’s capacity to support the ACE program.

Alabama Communities of Excellence

The Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) program uses a comprehensive, three-phase approach to assist participating communities in planning and preparing for a more vibrant future.

Application (Section 5)

United States Department of Agriculture-Rural Development (USDA)

University of West Alabama