Local Community Development Grants

The Louisiana Main Street Restoration Grants program, overseen by the Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, is designed to stimulate community revitalization and economic growth within designated Louisiana Main Street districts. This initiative aligns with a broader mission of enriching cultural tourism and improving community economic health through the thoughtful reinvestment in and preservation of historic downtown commercial properties. By fostering renewed interest in shopping, working, and living downtown, the program seeks to leverage historic preservation practices as a catalyst for local economic vitality. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are property owners or tenants of commercially-zoned properties within designated Louisiana Main Street districts. The program specifically targets buildings that are at least 50 years old and contribute to the significance of the local Main Street district, with some exceptions for newer buildings meeting National Register criteria for exceptional significance. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the physical and economic health of these historic districts, ensuring the preservation of their architectural heritage while simultaneously promoting a vibrant commercial environment. The grant prioritizes exterior improvements that visually and economically contribute to revitalization, such as restoring or replicating original interior architectural features. It also supports the installation or repair of fire suppression systems for commercial ground-floor spaces or new upper-story income-producing residential developments in historic commercial buildings. A unique focus includes parapet lighting, utilizing commercial-grade white or color LED lights to create a festive atmosphere across adjoining buildings for at least one block, and the restoration of historically significant signage or theater marquees. New commercial signage is explicitly not supported. Expected outcomes include enhanced aesthetic appeal and functionality of historic commercial properties, increased community engagement and interest in downtown areas, and ultimately, a stronger local economy. Measurable results could include the number of properties restored, the amount of private investment leveraged by grant funds, an increase in foot traffic or commercial activity, and the sustained use of historic buildings. The program’s strategic approach centers on utilizing historic preservation as a core economic development tool, reflecting a theory of change that posits by investing in the physical fabric of historic downtowns, communities can unlock broader economic and cultural benefits, making these areas more attractive for residents and visitors alike.

The City of Des Moines introduces the Ladder Up Social Equity Grant program, designed to support community organizations that work towards addressing economic disparities among marginalized and underrepresented residents. This initiative is part of the city's commitment to enhancing economic opportunities and fostering equitable outcomes. Funding Source Each year, the program allocates a total of $100,000 from Local Option Sales & Services Tax revenues to fund these critical efforts. The goal is to boost the local economy and strengthen the purchasing power within the community. Eligibility Criteria Organizations eligible to apply must: Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, or have a fiscal partner that is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Be based in Des Moines or demonstrate service to City of Des Moines residents. Have a proven track record of successful economic opportunity programming and a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. Supported Equity Efforts The grant supports a variety of initiatives, including but not limited to: Upskilling Programs: Training and education to enhance job skills. Small Business Support: Start-up assistance and ongoing coaching for underserved residents. Community Outreach: Targeted efforts towards specific marginalized groups. Language Accessibility: Increasing access to services through language support. Proactive Services: Quality services aimed at underserved communities. Economic Connection: Programs that link residents to economic opportunities. Grant Details Award Amounts: Organizations can receive between $10,000 and $25,000. Use of Funds: The grant covers operational costs such as program administration, supplies, and training. Funds must be used to expand or create programs specifically designed to serve historically marginalized communities.

This grant focuses on funding publicly owned infrastructure or community improvements like sidewalks, curbs, and artistic enhancements that serve the needs of businesses and citizens in Goshen County. These projects must directly relate to economic development and are intended to improve the quality of life and economic diversification efforts. Preference is given to local contractors if multiple bids are sought. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties, in partnership with the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 through the Loudoun Impact Fund to support projects and services that positively impact vulnerable or at-risk children and youth, people with disabilities, or older adults in Loudoun County, Virginia.

This grant provides financial assistance to small businesses in Dubuque, Iowa, to help cover operating costs and support long-term success for income-qualified owners.

The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) provides grants to rural-serving nonprofit organizations, as well as rural community colleges, that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education. The core mission of this program is to increase the overall capacity of these organizations and community colleges to address a wide array of rural development challenges. A key aspect of the fund's strategy is to help these entities establish new public/private partnerships, which are crucial for leveraging non-state sources of funding and ensuring long-term sustainability. The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) serves as the administrative agency for this grant, managing applications and disbursing funds. The target beneficiaries of MAERDAF are rural-serving nonprofit organizations and rural community colleges. These entities work with communities across Maryland's state-determined rural counties, including Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen rural Maryland through enhanced education, economic opportunities, and community development. By supporting organizations that directly serve these areas, MAERDAF aims to foster a more resilient and prosperous rural landscape. For Fiscal Year 2025, the RMC has outlined several key priority areas for applications. These include Agriculture & Forestry (Agricultural Education, Regional Food System Development, Forest Industry Development), Energy (Combined Heat Power, Energy Efficiency, Biomass), Rural Broadband (Rural Broadband Expansion Efforts, Digital Inclusion Programs), Youth Engagement & Leadership Development (Career Technology Centers, Youth Enrichment Programs), Economic Development (Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development, Education & Workforce Development, Regional Marketing Efforts & Tourism Projects), and Community Development (Rural Transportation, Housing repairs, Housing counseling, Poverty Alleviation Efforts). These focus areas reflect the most pressing needs and strategic opportunities for rural growth and improvement in Maryland. The expected outcomes and measurable results from MAERDAF grants are multifaceted, aiming for tangible improvements in rural areas. Projects are expected to contribute to the growth of agricultural and forestry sectors, increase energy efficiency, expand rural broadband access, and enhance youth engagement and leadership. In economic development, anticipated outcomes include the creation of entrepreneurship ecosystems, improved workforce development, and increased regional tourism. Community development efforts are designed to result in better rural transportation, improved housing conditions, and a reduction in poverty. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the focus on these clear outcome areas indicates an expectation of measurable progress in each. MAERDAF's strategic priorities are deeply aligned with a theory of change that posits that by empowering and funding rural-serving organizations and community colleges, a ripple effect of positive development will occur. The funding, budgeted at $878,964 for Fiscal Year 2025 with a maximum grant amount of $45,000, is intended to build the capacity of these local entities. The encouragement of new public/private partnerships further demonstrates a belief that diversified funding and collaborative efforts are essential for long-term impact. The emphasis on a broad range of development areas reflects a holistic approach to rural well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of agriculture, education, economy, and community health.

Grant Opportunity: Small Business Grants Funder: City of Fort Pierce Award Details: The City of Fort Pierce is offering Small Business Grants to existing small businesses with 5 or fewer employees (including part-time employees) located in specific 'Target Areas' that are in or serve the Lincoln Park area. The grants are funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and can be used for the purchase of equipment, signage, or other improvements that will increase the capacity and sustainability of the business. Grant recipients can receive up to $5,000 from the City of Fort Pierce. Eligibility: Only small businesses with 5 or fewer employees (including part-time employees) are eligible to apply for this grant opportunity. Nonprofit organizations are not eligible. Applicants must attend technical assistance workshops provided by IRSC-SBDC and have a current City of Fort Pierce Business Tax Receipt (BTR) and proof of registration with the Florida Division of Corporations. Other Information: Ineligible grant purchases include salaries, rent, utilities, internet, telephone service, business inventory, taxes, postage, or debt. Grant recipients will be required to enter into a contractual agreement with the City of Fort Pierce before receiving funds. Projects must begin within 30 days following contract execution. Subrecipients are responsible for maintaining records for a minimum of five years and may be subject to inspections and monitoring by Grants Administration Staff and/or HUD.

This grant provides financial support for property owners in the Village of Calumet to improve their buildings and enhance the downtown area's economic vitality through significant renovations.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in developing storytelling and communication strategies to promote a pilot program that boosts wages for child care workers in King County, ultimately advocating for sustained investment in early childhood care.

This program provides financial assistance to homeowners in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, for exterior home improvements that enhance curb appeal and neighborhood aesthetics.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations, projects, and activities that benefit the Eagle community in Idaho.

This program provides resources for neighborhood groups and K-12 public schools in Edmond to plant trees, improve urban greenery, and engage the community in tree care and education.

This funding opportunity supports small, for-profit businesses in Kalamazoo's downtown areas that are looking to grow or enhance their operations, with potential grants of up to $25,000 available for eligible applicants.

This funding is designed to support local organizations in Beltrami County that implement community-based programs and outreach initiatives aimed at preventing child abuse and promoting family well-being.

Grant Opportunity: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Funding Organization: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Contact Information: No specific contact information provided Program Description: The CDBG Program is a federally funded program that provides financial resources to states, cities, and counties to address community development needs. It supports the development of urban communities by creating decent housing, suitable living environments, and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals. Eligibility: Eligible service programs must meet at least one of three national objectives for the CDBG program: benefit low- and moderate-income persons, aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight, or meet a community development need with urgency. Grant Opportunity: CDBG Business Grant Program Funding Organization: City of Aliso Viejo Contact Information: Rose Rivera at [email protected] Program Description: The CDBG Business Grant Program aims to provide pandemic relief funding to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19 within the City of Aliso Viejo. Funding will be provided based on compliance with program guidelines, availability of funds, and submission of the required application and supporting documentation. Grant Opportunity: CDBG-CV Funding Organization: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Contact Information: No specific contact information provided Program Description: The CDBG-CV program was established under the CARES Act to provide $5 billion in CDBG funds for low-income families and vulnerable citizens affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City has received two allocations totaling $414,751 for various activities that meet the national objectives of the CDBG program. Other Relevant Information: - 2023-2027 Consolidated Plan and FY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan outline housing and community development needs within the context of the CDBG program. - Citizen Participation Agreement ensures resident participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan and related documents. - Consolidated Annual Performance & Evaluation Report (CAPER) summarizes progress towards meeting goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action. - Proposed 2020-2024 Orange County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing identifies barriers to fair housing and outlines an

The Grant County Community Foundation in North Dakota is offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to projects or nonprofit organizations in Grant County, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life for residents, and excluding projects substantially supported by government, national organizations, day-to-day expenses, and sectarian activities of religious organizations.

This grant provides funding for visual art projects that enhance public spaces in Lafayette, Colorado, supporting both local and external artists and organizations to promote community engagement and cultural diversity.

This program provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Louisville Metro for community-based events and initiatives that celebrate the city’s historical and cultural contributions as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

This initiative provides financial support for small businesses in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to access professional services in areas like marketing, accounting, and human resources, helping them recover and grow after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.