TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) announced the opening of the application cycle for the Defense Infrastructure Grant and Defense Reinvestment Grant programs to benefit local communities and military installations throughout the state.

“Military installations and their surrounding communities have an invaluable impact on Florida’s economy,” said DEO Secretary Dane Eagle. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is proud to remain the most military-friendly state in the nation as we bolster our military communities through programs like these.”

The Defense Infrastructure Grant Program supports local infrastructure projects that make a positive impact on the military value of installations within the state by addressing encroachment, transportation and access, housing, environment, and security needs. Funds are used for projects that benefit both local communities and military installations.

The Defense Reinvestment Grant Program provides support for community-based activities that protect existing military installations, diversify the economy of a defense-dependent community, or develop plans that facilitate the reuse of closed or realigned military installations, such as infrastructure improvements and related marketing activities.

Applications for these grants must include coordinated work plans that outline how the eligible projects will be administered and accomplished. The work plan must ensure close cooperation between civilian and military authorities to conduct the funded activities, as well as a plan for public involvement.

The application cycle is now open. Applicants must submit their applications to DEO no later than 3:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on April 8, 2022, through email to: DefenseGrants@DEO.MyFlorida.com.

Applicants can submit their questions about the Defense Infrastructure Grant and Defense Reinvestment Grant programs by email to DefenseGrants@DEO.MyFlorida.com.

Please note that any updates, additions, and clarifications regarding the application cycle will be posted as an addendum on DEO’s website at www.FloridaJobs.org/Military-Community-Programs. It is the Applicant’s responsibility to monitor DEO’s website for any updates or changes. 

About DEO

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce, and community development efforts, expediting economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities and promote economic resiliency. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.FloridaJobs.org.

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