Maryland Community Development Grants

The SFY 2025 Domestic Violence Unit Pilot Program (DVUP), funded by the State of Maryland through the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, aims to significantly reduce or minimize the time between the issuance of interim and temporary protective orders and their entry into the Maryland Electronic Telecommunications Enforcement Resource System/National Crime Information Center (METERS/NCIC). This initiative supports the office's objective of enhancing the availability and speed of information to support data-driven approaches to criminal justice issues in Maryland. The program has been institutionalized by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and continues to offer grants to local law enforcement agencies to enhance service efforts and ensure compliance with Family Law Article sections. The program anticipates making no more than 10 awards ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for the fiscal year 2025.

The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) Grant, facilitated by the Rural Maryland Council, is accepting applications for its 2025 Regional Planning and Development Councils initiative. The overarching mission of RMPIF is to elevate the standard of living in rural Maryland to meet or exceed statewide benchmarks by 2030, while simultaneously preserving the unique cultural heritage and rural lifestyle. This grant program is a strategic investment designed to bolster economic and community development, foster regional and intergovernmental cooperation, and enable local and nonprofit organizations to attract additional non-state resources for sustainable rural development. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the five established regional planning and development councils: the Tri-County Council of Western Maryland, Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland, Upper Shore Regional Council, Mid-Shore Regional Council, and Tri-County Council of the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. Additionally, multi-county efforts serving rural communities not covered by these councils are also eligible. The impact goals are broad, aiming to increase entrepreneurial activity, reduce unemployment and underemployment, retain valuable farm and forest land, and generally enhance the health, happiness, safety, employment opportunities, and general welfare of rural residents. The program prioritizes several key areas: encouraging a balanced economy, promoting intergovernmental cooperation and public/private partnerships, enhancing infrastructure for housing, transportation, water, wastewater, and broadband communications, and supporting rural commercial center redevelopment and community revitalization efforts. The grant specifically provides funding for projects and activities undertaken by the regional councils and other multi-county initiatives, with approved grant agreements reflecting strategic needs identified within the rural communities. Expected outcomes include stronger and more effective rural regions, the creation of economic development strategies, preservation and assistance for agricultural and resource-based industries, successful acquisition of federal funding for infrastructure, coordinated regional transportation projects (including public transit), and the development of support for diverse public policy initiatives. Each regional council is eligible to receive $600,000 in FY2025 for rural regional planning and development assistance, providing measurable financial support to achieve these objectives. The Rural Maryland Council's strategic priority is rooted in a theory of change that by investing in regional cooperation and targeted development, rural areas can achieve sustainable growth and a higher quality of life, ultimately benefiting the entire state.

The City of Greenbelt's Tree Canopy grant program offers one-time, reimbursable grants to homeowners and community organizations for the purchase and planting or replacement of trees. This initiative directly aligns with the City's mission to enhance its iconic tree canopy, addressing issues caused by storm damage, disease, and invasive insects. While not explicitly stating a "foundation mission," the grant's purpose of increasing density and resiliency of the tree canopy reflects a strategic priority for urban environmental health and sustainability within the City of Greenbelt. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are civic, neighborhood, community, and homeowner organizations, as well as apartment complexes and Greenbelt residential homeowners. The program aims to achieve several impact goals, including mitigating the effects of environmental damage on trees, promoting green infrastructure, and enhancing the overall aesthetic and ecological value of the urban landscape. By supporting the planting and replacement of trees, the grant contributes to a healthier environment for residents and a more robust ecosystem. The program prioritizes projects that contribute to the increase of the City's tree canopy density and resiliency. Funding, provided through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), can be used for purchasing, installing, staking, and mulching trees. This focus indicates a strategic priority on practical and tangible tree-planting efforts. The grant's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial assistance for tree acquisition and installation, the City can incentivize and empower its residents and organizations to actively participate in strengthening the local tree canopy. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in the number of healthy trees across Greenbelt, particularly in areas affected by damage or disease. Measurable results will likely include the number of trees planted or replaced, the types of trees planted, and the number of participating organizations and homeowners. Applicants are required to provide a written cost estimate for trees with a one-year guarantee, a maintenance and survivability plan, and a project budget, which suggests an emphasis on the long-term success and accountability of the planting initiatives.

This initiative provides funding to educational institutions, non-profits, and workforce organizations to create Cyber and AI clinics that train cybersecurity professionals and support community institutions in enhancing their cyber resilience.

The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) aims to elevate the standard of living in rural Maryland to or beyond statewide averages by 2030, while simultaneously preserving the unique cultural heritage and rural way of life. The fund, overseen by the Rural Maryland Council, provides targeted investments in economic and community development programs. This aligns with a broader mission to encourage entrepreneurial activity, foster a balanced economy, and relieve unemployment and underemployment in rural areas, ultimately promoting the overall health and welfare of rural residents across the State. RMPIF targets all rural counties in Maryland, benefiting local governments, higher education institutions, regional councils, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving rural constituencies. The core impact goal is to facilitate sustainable rural development by enabling these organizations to leverage additional non-state resources. Key priorities include the retention of valuable farm and forest land, promotion of intergovernmental and public-private partnerships, enhancement of essential infrastructure (housing, transportation, water, wastewater, broadband), and support for rural commercial center redevelopment and community revitalization efforts. The program's expected outcomes include increased entrepreneurial activity and commerce, a reduction in unemployment and underemployment, the productive use of farm and forest land, and improved infrastructure and services in rural areas. Measurable results for Fiscal Year 2025 include a State budget of $1,500,000 in General Funds specifically allocated for the entrepreneurship portion of the RMPIF program. The fund's theory of change posits that strategic investments and collaborative efforts will lead to a more prosperous, sustainable, and equitable future for rural Maryland, directly contributing to the well-being and economic stability of its residents. Eligible expenditures for RMPIF include salaries and wages, administrative costs (construction, leasing, renovation of buildings, purchase/rental of vehicles, equipment), and reasonable meal costs with justification. Administrative expenses, however, are capped at 25% of the grant request, and indirect administrative costs at 10%. Acquisition of land is not an eligible expense. Applicants are strongly encouraged to include a statement on sustainability for future years, ensuring the long-term impact and viability of the funded initiatives.

This program provides financial assistance to local governments and nonprofits in Maryland for energy efficiency upgrades and solar installations in homes occupied by low- to moderate-income residents.

This program provides emergency funding to local nonprofit organizations in Frederick County that are facing financial challenges due to the federal government shutdown, helping them maintain essential services for residents.

The Healthy Environment, Healthy Communities Grant Program is a funding initiative by the Chesapeake Bay Trust that supports projects by various organizations to address environmental and public health issues through education, small-scale greening, and large-scale restoration in specific areas affected by wastewater treatment plants and energy companies.

The Appalachian Regional Energy Hub Initiative aims to strengthen regional economies by investing in energy resilience through research and planning grants, and implementation grants. The initiative focuses on establishing a regional energy hub for natural gas and natural gas liquids, including hydrogen production. Eligible applicants include local development districts, Indian Tribes, states, counties, cities, and higher education institutions, among others. The total funding available is $5 million, with a grant proposal due by July 24, 2024.

This program provides financial assistance to qualified homeowners in Mount Rainier, Maryland, for essential home repairs and improvements to enhance safety and comfort.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations that deliver essential health, education, and financial stability services to residents of Kent County, Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Chesapeake & Coastal Service (CCS) offers grants to support the sustainable development and use of Maryland waterways. Funded by the Waterway Improvement Fund (WIF), the program supports projects that improve and promote the recreational and commercial capabilities, conditions, and safety of Maryland’s waterways. Eligible applicants, including county, town, or city governments and state or federal agencies, can apply for projects such as constructing or maintaining public boating facilities, dredging channels, and purchasing fire/rescue vessels. Applications are due by September 18, 2024, with funding available starting July 1, 2025.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and community groups in Montgomery County, Maryland, for projects focused on watershed restoration, public outreach, and environmental stewardship, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

This funding initiative provides financial support for conservation projects in the Delaware River watershed, targeting nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions focused on habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and community engagement.

Name of Funding Organization: Cecil County, Maryland Contact Information: Not provided in the input Grant Program: FY24 Cecil County Route 40 Revitalization Grant Program Intent: The grant aims to assist businesses and organizations located along the Route 40 corridor in Cecil County, Maryland to improve their exterior visual appearance and function. The goal is to enhance the overall visual appearance and increase utilization of these businesses and organizations. Award Details: The maximum award per grant application is $25,000. Grant funds are intended to be used for exterior improvement projects visible from Route 40. Up to 20% of the grant funds may be used for specified interior improvements with prior approval. All funding is contingent upon funding from the State of Maryland and approval of Cecil County Council. Eligibility: Businesses and organizations, both for-profit and non-profit, located within Cecil County along the Route 40 corridor with a Route 40/Pulaski Highway address are eligible to apply. Applicants must be in good standing with the IRS, State of Maryland, and Cecil County. Other Relevant Information: - Applicants must match the funds they are applying for. - Project designs must be approved by Cecil County Government. - Demolition of derelict structures visible from Route 40 will be considered. - Disbursement of grant funding will only be made on a reimbursement basis. - Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis starting January 1, 2024. - Grant funds must be expended by June 30, 2024. Eligible Activities: Signage, Lighting, Roofing, Siding, Painting, Entrance, Porch/Deck, Fencing, Landscaping/Hardscaping, Sidewalks, Driveway, Parking, ADA Ramp, Demolition Ineligible Activities: Improvements to primary residence, Interior renovations, Improvements not visible from Route 40, Trash Removal Project Evaluation: The Grant Review Committee will evaluate applications based on criteria such as completeness, enhanced visual appearance from Route 40, stability of business/organization, positive impact on the business and community, clear explanation of how grant funds will be used, adherence to maximum limit of $25,000, identification of matching funds sources, preference

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that develop innovative resources and services to help adults in the middle or late stages of their careers with reskilling, upskilling, and career navigation, particularly those who are unemployed or underemployed.

This grant provides financial support to businesses in Takoma Park for capital improvements and renovations to help them establish, grow, or enhance their operations.

This funding opportunity supports Anne Arundel County Public School clubs and youth organizations in implementing peer-led education programs focused on preventing substance misuse among youth.

This program provides funding to organizations in Maryland that promote equitable access to outdoor recreation for underserved communities, addressing barriers like transportation and cost.

City of Cumberland Home Rehabilitation Grant Program is a grant opportunity offered by the City of Cumberland's Community Development Department in Maryland. The program aims to support the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative by providing matching funds for the improvement of uninhabitable properties within the city limits. The grant amount will be determined at the conclusion of the project, with a 50% matching grant up to $25,000. Projects must be completed within 12 months of the notice of award. Applicants are required to submit an application form, portfolio of previous projects (if any), SDAT page showing property value less than $100k, interior and exterior photos documenting property vacancy, list and cost estimate of renovations, and proof of available funds for the project. About the Program The City of Cumberland’s Community Development Department is pleased to introduce a new Home Rehabilitation Grant program in support of our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative to reduce blight. This grant program will provide 50% matching funds, up to $25,000, for the improvement of a property in the city limits of Cumberland that is uninhabitable in its current condition. 20230419_111216 Application Process Interested parties must obtain an application packet from the Community Development Department and submit the application, along with the following documentation: A portfolio of previous projects, if any A printed page from the MD State Department of Assessment and Taxation website showing the assessed value of the property is under $100,000 Interior photos documenting the property is vacant A list of all items to be updated/remodeled An estimated cost of the project A statement shoring the scope of projected renovations and a timeline to completion. Proof of available funds for the project More Information can be obtained by contacting: Kevin Thacker, Code Compliance Manager : 301-759-6659 (Office) The City of Cumberland’s Community Development Department is pleased to introduce a new Home Rehabilitation Grant program in support of our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative to reduce blight. This grant program will provide 50% matching funds, up to $25,000, for the improvement of a property in the city limits of Cumberland that is uninhabitable in its current condition. The program only qualifies for properties which are assessed under $100,000 by the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/RealProperty/Pages/default.aspx), and must be uninhabitable in their current condition (verified through interior photos and staff inspection). Applications are required to be signed and submitted by the property owner. The applicant must be legal owner of property at time of application with proof of ownership. All applications must also be submitted, selected for funding, and all approvals must be in place before the project can begin. This program is subject to the availability of funds and application acceptance can be discontinued at any time by the City of Cumberland. Denise Adams, Citizen Service Representative : 301-759-6459 (Office) Email: denise.adams@cumberlandmd.gov Community Development Office, Basement Level of City Hall 57 N. Liberty Street Cumberland, MD 21502 More information can be found in the Grant Application Packet Disbursement of Grant Funds All necessary permits must be obtained from the City. The property will be subject to both third-party and City inspections, and may require a Section 106 Review. Grant funds will be released when the renovations are completed as provided for in the application, an occupancy permit is issued, and the property owner submits invoices and before and after photos. Application packets must be obtained from the City’s Community Development office. Applicant needs to apply for the grant and must include the following in the application packet:  Application Form  Portfolio of previous projects (if any)  SDAT page showing value less than $100k  Interior photos documenting the property is vacant (subject to verification by City staff)  List of all items (room by room) to be updated/remodeled  Estimated cost of the project showing the scope of projected renovations and a timeline to completion  Exterior photos of the property showing the front, both sides and the back  Applicant must show proof of available funds for the project. Application packets are accepted on a rolling basis. The Grant Committee meets on the third Wednesday of every month to review submissions—any applications received after 11:00 a.m. on that Wednesday will be held for review the following month. The City of Cumberland reserves the right to accept or reject any and all applications. PROGRAM SPECIFICS  This program applies for properties assessed for under $100,000 within the city limits of Cumberland.  No construction may begin before the grant has been awarded and all approvals are in place. If any work has taken place, please contact our office to discuss the specifics, prior to submission of the application.  In most cases, any costs incurred prior to application will be cause for rejection. Under no circumstances will costs incurred prior to application approval be reimbursed.  All required permits must be obtained prior to construction. Projects that are commenced prior to receiving the proper permits will invalidate the funding.  Permits are obtained from the community development office for all work that requires a permit (electrical, plumbing, building and occupancy permits). If the property falls within the historic district, an additional permit, the Certificate of Appropriateness, would be required.  A Section 106 review may be required based on the location of the property.  Projects are required to be completed within 12 months of notice of award.  Third party inspections are required for framing, electrical and plumbing work.  Progress inspections will be conducted quarterly by the City of Cumberland.  Receipts or invoices with proof of payment and progress photos are collected quarterly.  Disclosure of all liens and encumbrances on the property is required.  All state, county, local taxes and water, sewer and trash fees must be current.  Property owner must not have any code violations with the City.  The property owner is required to maintain property and general liability insurance on buildings and other improvements on the property throughout the duration of the project at the Owner’s expense. Additionally, if the property is determined to be in a 100-year flood plain, as designated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the owner must maintain a flood plain insurance policy.  Limit one (1) grant per applicant per property  Grant amount will be determined at the conclusion of the project. It will be a 50% matching grant, up to a total of $25,000.  The property owner must submit before and after photos of the project. APPLICATION DEADLINE/WHERE TO APPLY Application packets are accepted on a rolling basis. The Grant committee meets on the third Wednesday of each month to review submissions; any application packets received after 11:00 a.m. on that Wednesday will be held for review the following month. Completed application packets must be delivered to: Home Rehabilitation Grant, The Office of Community Development, City Hall, 57 N. Liberty Street, Cumberland, MD 21502.