Community Services Block Grant Discretionary Awards

CED and RCD are two funding opportunities in this program with a focus on development of communities with low income. CED is the only federal opportunity that primarily focuses on creating jobs for individuals with low income in communities with high unemployment and poverty rates. CED projects utilize multiple strategies such as providing start-up capital, loans, financial equity investments, and funding for construction. Projects create and expand businesses that include but are not limited to: restaurants and commercial kitchens; distribution, shopping, and childcare centers; and agricultural and environmental initiatives. RCD supports the nation’s unincorporated areas and lowest income communities, including tribal and persistent poverty areas that face unique challenges in managing their water and wastewater systems. RCD award recipients use funds to provide training and technical assistance to communities so that they can develop and manage affordable, safe water and wastewater systems.