Community Economic Development Projects
This grant provides $18.57 million to Community Development Corporations for innovative projects that create and sustain jobs and businesses for low-income individuals in underserved urban and rural areas.
Funder: Administration for Children and Families – OCS
Due Dates: September 8, 2026 | May 27, 2027 | May 25, 2028
Funding Amounts: $100,000–$800,000 per award (3–4 year project period); ~$17.5M total program funding; ~21–24 awards expected.
Summary: Supports community development corporations in creating or expanding businesses and permanent jobs for low-income individuals in distressed communities.
Key Information: No cost-sharing required; applicants must be private, nonprofit CDCs meeting specific board and purpose criteria.
Description
This federal grant program, administered by the Office of Community Services (OCS) within the Administration for Children and Families, funds Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to create or expand businesses and generate permanent, full-time jobs for individuals with low income in communities experiencing persistent poverty and high unemployment. The program aims to foster economic revitalization and reduce dependence on federal assistance by supporting innovative, financially viable projects that address local needs. Projects may be construction or non-construction and must actively recruit and support eligible individuals in maintaining employment, while ensuring that at least 75% of jobs created are filled by low-income individuals.
