BALTIMORE, MD.  — Mayor Catherine E. Pugh and the City’s Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) have initiated the second phase of the Community Catalyst Grants Program (CCG). The Agency will award up to $3 million in grants to support capital projects that are critical to locally-driven community revitalization efforts in Baltimore City. 
The initial phase of CCG – a competitive awards program - included $2 million in funding for operating grant awards and technical support for neighborhood-based partner organizations.  DHCD received over 100 applications for operating support and will announce those awards later this month.

“Both the operating and capital funds being made available through the Community Catalyst Grants Program are part of a developing comprehensive community development platform,” stated Mayor Catherine E. Pugh.  “These catalyst grants complement the Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund (NIIF) and support our strategy to bring meaningful investment to all neighborhoods across Baltimore City.”

Eligible applicants for the capital grants include community development corporations, neighborhood-based development organizations, umbrella organizations, and other neighborhood-based organizations including faith-based organizations and merchant associations.

For-profit developers, are also able to apply for funds provided they are a co-applicant with an eligible applicant that has a significant role in the project including equity participation and/or other comparable financial benefits. 

“This is a promising moment with access to new capital that will support a diverse array of talented partners and projects,” stated Housing Commissioner Michael Braverman. “Our initial round of grants will bring operating strength to many local area partners.  We envision capital grants being utilized in a variety of ways; including acquisition, gap financing, cooperative economic enterprises and planning efforts. We are excited for what we will accomplish together.”

Applications for capital project funds are due by 4 p.m. EST, on Friday, March 22.  The guidelines and application can be found at https://dhcd.baltimorecity.gov/nd/community-catalyst-grants.  Awards are expected to be disbursed in May.