How do I apply?
Applications are sent in late January to mayors of all eligible communities with a qualifying population of 2,000 to 18,000. The preferred application method is to submit the form online.
Citizens from the community may assist in completing the application, but it must be endorsed and signed by the mayor.
How are the applications judged?
The main criteria used in selecting ACE participants are 1) the level of local commitment to the ACE program, 2) the community’s capacity to support the ACE program, and 3) the provision of complete and accurate information in the application. In addition, consideration is also given to achieving issues such as serving diverse populations and ensuring a regional balance.
Applications must be submitted online or postmarked by the due date to be considered.
What type of information is included in the application?
To assist communities in gathering information needed for the application, an application overview has been compiled. Please see the ACE Application for a listing of the types of information needed to complete an ACE application.
How much does it cost to participate?
No application fee is charged. Likewise, for those communities selected for the ACE program, no fees are charged for ACE services. Any meeting costs or community project costs will be the responsibility of the participating community.
How long does this process take?
The timeframe to complete the ACE program varies from community to community, but communities are encouraged to successfully complete the program within three years.