The 2026 City of Everett Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program supports a wide range of community development initiatives aimed at addressing local priorities as identified by the Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC). The CDAC conducted a public hearing on August 19, 2025, to establish funding priorities, which include behavioral and mental health services, housing stability, public services for vulnerable populations, and economic development activities. These priorities guide the allocation of federal CDBG funds to eligible projects that benefit low- to moderate-income individuals.
Eligible applicants for the CDBG program include private nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status and registration as a nonprofit corporation in Washington State. Faith-based organizations and for-profit entities may also apply under the guidelines of 24 CFR 570.201. Individuals are not eligible to apply. Funded programs must ensure that at least 51% of beneficiaries are low- to moderate-income individuals, defined as those earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) as defined by HUD. An Everett business license is required if awarded funds.
Applicants for non-public service CDBG projects are required to participate in technical assistance meetings with Community Development staff during the week of October 13, 2025. Environmental review compliance is also necessary for these federally funded projects. Awarded funds for public facilities, infrastructure, and economic development activities are issued as forgivable deferred loans, with the City of Everett typically securing a second or third position on project titles.
The application review process begins with a completeness and capacity assessment by city staff. Eligible proposals are then evaluated by the CDAC, followed by a public hearing where applicants and community members can provide input. Funding recommendations are finalized by the City Council through a formal resolution. The CDBG program emphasizes transparency and community involvement in its funding decisions.
While a cost match is not required, starting in the 2026 program year, applications demonstrating a 100% match from other sources will be prioritized. Projects not involving acquisition or planning must submit a Combined Funder Application (CFA), or upload a previously submitted CFA if applicable. Environmental and financial documentation are key components of the application process.
Applications for the 2026 CDBG program are now closed. However, as this is a recurring annual opportunity, the next application cycle is expected to open in fall 2026. Interested organizations are encouraged to subscribe to the Community Development News Flash for updates and notices of funding availability. For questions or technical assistance, contact Kembra Landry at klandry@everettwa.gov.
Projects with 100% matching funds are prioritized; ensure compliance with environmental review requirements.
