Provider
Pennsylvania Economy League (PEL)
Application Deadline
December 31, 2025
Summary
The Pennsylvania Economy League (PEL), a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy organization, is proud to announce the launch of the Local Government Innovation Lab, a new statewide initiative designed to help Pennsylvania’s local governments and communities tackle fiscal, operational, and policy challenges through applied research, technical assistance, policy analysis, and data-driven innovation. Throughout 2026, the Local Government Innovation Lab will provide selected partners with free, customized support to help local governments make smarter decisions, stretch limited resources, and avoid costly mistakes.
PEL will accept applications from municipal and county governments, school districts, nonprofits, academic institutions, and community organizations. Up to two projects will be selected from each of the five regions across the state. Applications will be reviewed and assessed in January 2026, with final selections announced in February 2026. Projects will be completed throughout the year, culminating in a celebration of progress in late 2026.
Common Eligible Projects
Examples of sample projects include, but are not limited to:
Applied Research: Conducting actionable research studies on municipal finance, service delivery, and community development.
Technical Assistance: Providing customized support to local governments facing fiscal or management challenges.
Civic Engagement: Hosting forums, workshops, and surveys to elevate citizen voices in local decision-making.
Program Development: Leveraging current community assets, collaboratively design programs, frameworks, or initiatives to support community and economic development and growth.
More Information
https://pelcentral.org/innovation-lab
