TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Small and rural communities around Florida will have the chance to compete for $22.6 million in community development and revitalization grants from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) this spring. Beginning March 12, communities can submit applications for the Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program. Applications must be received by DEO by 5:00 p.m. on April 25, 2016.

The grants will be awarded through a competitive selection process. DEO has funds available in four subgrant categories:

• $8.6 million for neighborhood revitalization,
• $5.7 million for housing rehabilitations,
• $1.5 million for commercial revitalization, and
• $6.9 million for job creation and retention activities.

DEO Executive Director Cissy Proctor said, “DEO strives to promote economic and community development across the state. The Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program allows us to provide targeted aid to smaller communities. With additional resources such as these DEO investments, smaller communities can get the help they need to promote a higher quality of life, a better business environment, and more job opportunities in their communities.”

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has identified 245 cities and counties across the state that are eligible for the grants. A complete list of eligible communities and additional information on criteria, application process, and project selection is available on the Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program website. Visit www.floridajobs.org/CDBGApplicantInfo.

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