R357-19-6. Criteria for Approving Business Plans and Awarding Funding

  (1) A BRC seeking state funding shall provide an annual proposal with a business plan detailing how that funding will be used during the fiscal year.

  (2) BRC funds provided by the Office shall only be used for approved activities and expenses.

  (3) The Office shall determine the amount granted to each BRC in the following manner:

  (a) larger amounts may be granted to BRCs that serve a larger geographic area.

  (b) BRCs that serve a larger population size may receive larger amounts

  (c) Award amounts may be determined and influenced by types of services and the overall service packages offered by the BRC. A more comprehensive service model may receive larger award amounts.

  i. Examples of a more comprehensive service models would be those that include the following:

  A. Diverse programs to help businesses with varying needs;

  B. Business education programs, including programs in collaboration with public, private, governmental and educational institutions;

  C. Academic resources, including faculty and student assistance

  (d) Award amounts may be determined and influenced by the amount the BRC has been utilized when considering overall geographic and population size that the BRC potentially services. BRCs that demonstrate a higher amount of overall use in relation to the service area size and population size may receive larger award amounts.

  i. Demonstration of past use can be shown through:

  A. Reports highlighting overall economic output for the area serviced;

  B. The number of business serviced on a year over year basis;

  C. Measured output of businesses serviced;

  D. The existence of research, development, or training programs for new or existing businesses, industries, or high technology business located in its region;

  E. Needs assessments relating to new or existing businesses, industries, or high technology business in conjunction with other public or private economic development programs or initiatives;

  F. Develop and implement with local business leaders sound, coordinated, and measurable economic development programs for their communities;

  G. Developing and certifying non-state funded satellite BRCs.

  (e) Award amounts may be determined and influenced by how past awards have been used and if past award amounts have not been fully expended.

  (f) Award amounts may be influenced by the amount of additional funds from other sources the BRC will receive in the same fiscal year that the award will be used.

  (g) Award amounts can be increased for BRCs that demonstrate an expansion of current services into areas not currently served by another BRC.

  (h) Consider other criteria in determining the appropriate award amount including the recommendations of an advisory group as established in 63N-3-306.

  (4) The Office will establish an agreement via contract with BRCs who are awarded funding during each fiscal year.

  (5) The Office will disburse all funds on a post-performance or reimbursement basis only.

  (6) Invoice documentation will be reviewed by the Office to verify fidelity to the BRC's business plan.