Community Development Block Grant Program

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program administered by the City of Hoboken, New Jersey, is a federally funded initiative that provides financial support to enhance the quality of life for low- and moderate-income residents. Originating under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 and funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the CDBG Program allows cities like Hoboken—classified as entitlement communities—to independently design and implement community-based solutions that address housing, infrastructure, and service-related needs. The City’s Department of Community Development oversees the program and has developed a structured, transparent process for proposal evaluation, funding allocation, and implementation oversight. The primary objective of the CDBG Program is to create viable urban environments through projects that provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities, particularly for low- and moderate-income individuals. Hoboken’s 2025–2029 Consolidated Plan outlines key priorities, including support for public services, investment in public facilities, and the preservation of affordable housing. These priorities were determined through a comprehensive needs assessment and robust public participation process, including focus groups, public meetings, and a bilingual community survey. Notable needs identified include support for homeless services, youth programming, health access, public facility modernization, and improvements to housing managed by the Hoboken Housing Authority. Two major funding categories are available under Hoboken’s CDBG Program: Public Services and Capital Improvements. Public Services funding, capped at 15% of the annual allocation (approximately $160,000), supports community programs such as food assistance, child care, homelessness prevention, and mental health services. Capital Improvement funding, approximately $600,000, is targeted toward infrastructure upgrades such as ADA compliance modifications, HVAC replacements, and public space rehabilitation, particularly within facilities that serve low- and moderate-income populations. All funded activities must align with one of HUD’s national objectives, including benefit to low/mod income individuals, prevention of blight, or addressing urgent community needs. Applicants for CDBG funding must be local nonprofit organizations or public agencies capable of administering federally funded programs. Applications must be submitted by the designated deadline—Friday, February 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM—and must demonstrate alignment with the City's Consolidated Plan priorities, clearly defined performance goals, evidence of community need, and cost effectiveness. Additional selection criteria include prior experience with CDBG or similar funding, project readiness, and efforts to leverage other funding sources. First-time applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with the City’s CDBG consultant for technical support during the application process. Applications are reviewed by City staff and consultants for completeness and eligibility. Proposals are scored on a 100-point scale based on documented need, alignment with strategic priorities, management readiness, financial leverage, and completeness. Scoring also evaluates the applicant’s capacity for program implementation and past performance if applicable. Final recommendations are made to the City’s CDBG Subcommittee, which determines funding allocations. Funded projects must meet ongoing federal compliance requirements including proof of income eligibility for beneficiaries, adherence to environmental and Davis-Bacon regulations, and submission of timely reports. The performance period for awarded projects typically aligns with the City’s fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026. Funding is disbursed on a reimbursement basis, and awardees must track expenses and outcomes according to HUD protocols. Contact information for both the City of Hoboken’s Department of Community Development and its contracted technical assistance provider is published for applicants seeking clarification or support.

Align with Consolidated Plan priorities; demonstrate low/mod benefit; consult Triad if unsure of eligibility.