An inquiry with the Dept of Commerce seeking grants in support of community viability resulted in a referral to a database of over 400 grants. Speaking generally, all of these grants were provided by a single agency silo. While all are helpful to their individual missions, the reality is that a new library, water treatment plant, solar panels etc. will have little to no effect on enhancing long term viability nor will they address the broader forces that are reducing the viability of all communities. In looking at the private side, the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy categorizes national giving totaling $557.16 billion in 2023. Similarly, each of these categories provides needed assistance to their specific area of interest but again, acting independently, these grants will support ongoing programs but have little to no effect on enhancing viability nor will they address the broader forces that are reducing that very viability for all similar communities.

There is a reason big problems remain unsolved. Just as the narrow approach of the ad hoc telework failed in the pandemic, so too has the non-integrated approach failed to resolve to reverse the decline. What is needed is a comprehensive, integrated approach. And the government’s private telecommunications system which took the schools, hospitals, libraries and government offices out of the local market reduces the market demand by 50% or more in many small towns has not  helped.