Technical Assistance Program

In 1995 the Cape Cod Commission established its Technical Assistance Program (TAP). The TAP was created to provide assistance to local housing authorities, housing non-profits and the towns in the areas of capacity building, resource development and short-term strategic planning. These services are provided through a consultant contracted by the applicant and paid by the Commission. Over this time all 15 towns and many organizations from across the Cape have received assistance. A summary of the awards is provided here.

Purpose

The purpose the TAP is to enhance the ability of program participants to more effectively address the affordable housing needs of low- and moderate-income residents on Cape Cod. Particular attention is given to requests that:

1. address obstacles that hinder an entity's ability to achieve program goals;
2. seek assistance for developing and/or implementing new program initiatives (feasibility study, development planning); and
3. assist new agencies in program implementation and identifying priorities.

Scope of Service

The TAP's scope of services for specific projects can include identifying ways to increase overall organization capacity (e.g., assessing agency's past performance, program management, and ability to undertake new initiatives), provide input regarding project feasibility (e.g., create development strategy, identify funding sources, and assist in developing grant proposals), and develop short-term strategic plans (e.g., identify specific goals and priorities, assist in development of needs analyses, conduct housing/lot inventories, and create action plans).

Overall program considerations limit the scope and length of assistance the TAP can provide to any one project. Applicants are asked to submit proposals that are realistic in the scope of assistance they seek. The TAP is not designed to function as a housing/project consultant for any particular proposal. Proposals are considered on their responsiveness to the TAP application, locality, and its impact on addressing affordable housing.

Program Guidelines and Application

This Web site offers online versions of Technical Assistance Program materials:

• Technical Assistance Program Guidelines - September 2009
• Application for Technical Assistance Program Funds - September 2009

For further information regarding the TAP and when the next round of assistance will take place, contact Paul Ruchinskas at (508) 362-3828.