Sec. 40.6. Evaluation criteria

The department shall evaluate the proposals based upon the applicant's demonstration of the following:

(a) the applicant's understanding of the goals and objectives in section 40.3 of this Part;

(b) the level of participation in the proposed development center of local leaders in post-secondary education, business, finance and government;

(c) the level of financial and other assistance provided at the State, Federal and local levels, including private sources, to support the operations of the proposed development center;

(d) the plans of the proposed development center to supplement State, Federal and local funding through fees for services which may be based on a sliding scale based on ability to pay;

(e) the need for and anticipated impact of the proposed development center on the community in which it will function;

(f) the quality of the work plan and staff of the proposed development center;

(g) the extent of economic distress in the area to be served;

(h) the extent to which the applicant has experience in providing business management and technical assistance to clients;

(i) the extent to which the applicant coordinates with other assistance programs targeted to small and new businesses;

(j) the extent to which the applicant understands the economic conditions and needs of the community and the region;

(k) the applicant's documented commitment to affirmative action principles;

(l) the extent to which the applicant's proposal could be replicated in other areas of the State; and

(m) such other criteria as the department shall deem relevant.