Community Development Block Grant - Economic Development (CDBG-ED) Program

CDBG-ED grant funds are awarded to local governments to assist businesses to create or retain jobs for individuals with low and moderate incomes.  Examples of eligible projects include: business loans to expand facilities or purchase equipment, specialized employee training, or business infrastructure projects. 

  • How to Apply: A pre-application meeting with DEHCR is required.  The business will work with the Unit of General Local Government (UGLG) to complete the application for the CDBG-ED program.  Typical awards are $7,000-$10,000 per job created or retained, however the amount of funds awarded per job is at the discretion of DEHCR.  At least 51% of the jobs created or retained must be held by low-and moderate-income (LMI) persons.  CDBG-ED applications may be submitted at any time, and are reviewed by DEHCR as they are received.  CDBG-ED funds are awarded throughout the year until funds are no longer available.  Application materials and submission instructions should be carefully reviewed prior to applying for CDBG-ED funds.  If awarded, the CDBG contract will be between DEHCR and the UGLG.  

  • Review Process: For each Grant Application received, DOA reviews the Application (on a case-by-case basis) to determine the eligibility & fundability of the proposed project.  Successful Applications must meet a CDBG National Objective (in accordance with HUD program regulations).  DOA anticipates a minimum 60-day review time period for submitted Applications.  Applications deemed eligible & fundable will be awarded State CDBG-ED funds.

  • Award Process: Award letters will be issued upon determination of the Communities' (and their respective Businesses') abilities to meet a CDBG National Objective in accordance with HUD program regulations.  The award letter outlines the next steps required to accept & execute a Grant Agreement (i.e. contract) with the State of Wisconsin.

  • Next Steps & Requirements: Community grant administrators will be required to attend implementation training

CDBG - Economic Development (CDBG-ED) Application Materials

Additional Reference Materials

CDBG - Economic Development (CDBG-ED) Implementation Handbook

CDBG - Economic Development (CDBG-ED) Reporting Requirements​

Contact Us

If you have questions about the status of your CDBG application, please contact the Department of Administration's Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources (DEHCR) at (608) 266-7531.

General information regarding DEHCR's Bureau of Community Development (BCD), which oversees and manages the CDBG Grants, may be obtained by emailing CDBG-Community Development or by contacting the BCD Director at (608) 261-7538.

Mailing Address:
The mailing address is provided below for reference only.  All applications and correspondence should not be mailed.  They are to be emailed to DOACDBG@wisconsin.gov.

Wisconsin Dept. of Administration
Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources
Bureau of Community Development
PO Box 7970
Madison, WI 53707-7970