In keeping with its mission to improve the quality of life in DeKalb County, the DeKalb County Community Foundation is pleased to announce another step forward for economic development planning in the community. A strategic planning process for the Village of Malta is now underway thanks in part to a $9,000 grant from the Community Foundation and a $500 grant from Resource Bank.

The new strategic planning process, The Malta Seedling Project, will revise Malta’s vision, goals and strategies to promote local economic development. The outcome for this planning is to revitalize and further develop the local economy, making the region more attractive to businesses and residents.

“It’s great to see how many people are interested in small community development”, said Village of Malta President Bob Iversen. “We’re really excited to begin this strategic planning process. Thank you to the Community Foundation and Resource Bank for supporting our community.”

Application deadline is August 1, 2017 for the next round of Community Economic Development Grants. For questions or additional information, please contact Program Director Anita Zurbrugg at 815-748-5383 or anita@dekalbccf.org.

The Community Economic Development Grant program grew out of an ongoing partnership between the Community Foundation, DeKalb County Government, DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation and DeKalb County Farm Bureau. Starting in late 2015, this team, working with NIU Center for Governmental Studies, helped shape and support the countywide economic development visioning process.

Funding for this grant program comes from donor generosity to undesignated funds (community impact funds) at the Community Foundation. When donors give to these funds, they allow the Foundation Board of Directors to respond to needs and opportunities in communities throughout DeKalb County. Through grantmaking and generous donor support, we are Helping today…Shaping tomorrow.