Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is a Federal grant program operated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This program provides entitlement grants to local government for community development activities. The grant amount is determined by formula and varies from year to year according to the amount appropriated nationally by the U.S. Congress.

The overall goal of Detroit's CDBG program is to develop a viable urban community by providing funding for decent housing, economic opportunities, needed services and a suitable living environment, primarily for persons of low and moderate income. CDBG funds may be used for a wide variety of activities including home rehabilitation, construction and rehabilitation of community facilities, demolition of blighted buildings, acquisition, relocation and preparation of property for new development, economic development, public services, planning, and administration of the program.

The Mayor and City Council of the City of Detroit determine how these grant funds will be spent after a citizen participation process, including requests for and submission of proposals from community organizations, public service agencies, and City agencies and public meetings and hearings.

Since 1976, the City Council has provided grants for non-comprehensive neighborhood improvement projects proposed by nonprofit neighborhood organizations and nonprofit neighborhood service organizations through the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) program. This program, which is a part of the City's CDBG program, have provided public services in areas such as Health, Education, Recreation, Seniors and Public Safety. To see a list of the most recent NOF grants or to learn how to apply for an NOF grant, please visit the NOF webpage.