Rural Beacon Initiative

Matt Watkins

Grants Consultant

As the Principal of Watkins Public Affairs (WPA), Matt is committed to leveraging public investment as a catalyst for economic mobility, equity, and sustainable development. Matt’s work focuses on securing and managing federal and state grants, earmarks, and strategic funding opportunities that drive transformative change in communities nationwide.
Over his career, Matt has helped secure more than $1.4 billion in funding for projects totaling over $2 billion. Matt’s broader work and academic research explore how cities and regions can create sustainable, equitable economic models that reduce dependence on volatile federal policies.