FAQs

Who benefits from the El Paso County CDBG program?

The purpose of the CDBG program is to assist eligible low-and-moderate income (LMI) clients through indirect financial assistance within five different funding categories.

How much funding is typically available through the El Paso County CDBG program?

El Paso County receives an annual allocation from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The County’s annual CDBG budget is typically $1.1 million.

Where can I find more specific information pertaining to the CDBG program?

CDBG is funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, and is subject to all Federal requirements outlined within 24 CFR, Part 570.

Who may apply for El Paso County’s portion of CDBG?

El Paso County CDBG funds may only be utilized by non-profits, municipalities, all-inclusive faith-based organizations, microenterprises (3 or fewer employees), institutions of higher education, and CBDOs (Community Based Development Organizations).

It is my first time applying; what should I know?

First-time applicants must schedule a one-on-one meeting prior to applying, so that El Paso County Economic Development staff may determine a project’s viability and applicability.

May I apply for CDBG funds every year?

Yes, however – organizations that have received funding within the Public Service category for two consecutive years must take a “year of rest” and cannot reapply for a third year.

What are the minimum and maximum amounts for which I may apply?

El Paso County CDBG advises a funding minimum of $20,000 and a maximum of $200,000 per project.

What is a general award notice timeline for El Paso County’s CDBG?

Preliminary award notices typically occur in early summer. However, due to Federal requirements, projects are not permitted to begin until sometime in late fall.

How do I apply?

Applications are available upon request, and must be submitted electronically to CDBG@elpasoco.com. Please scan and electronically attach any supporting documents with your application. The El Paso County CDBG application cycle occurs annually from the first week of January until the first week of February. Please visit our CDBG Application Cycle website for more information.

What are the eligible project categories within CDBG?

There are five project categories that an eligible organization may apply within: Public Service, Public Facility, Infrastructure, Housing, and Economic Development.

Does El Paso County give preference to certain projects?

Additional consideration may be given to projects that are determined to be “shovel ready,” have leveraged funds, have garnered appropriate community support, and help to achieve El Paso County’s Consolidated Plan Goals.

Who decides which projects are accepted and funded?

The El Paso County Community Development Advisory Board (CDAB) reviews all eligible applications and submits funding recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC). All final funding decisions are made by the BoCC.

How much time will I have to utilize CDBG funds once awarded?

CDBG is a reimbursement grant; CDBG funds may only be reimbursed during the 12-month grant period, and only for predetermined eligible expenses.

What would be considered an “eligible” or “ineligible” expense?

CDBG funds may not be used on items or services that extend beyond the life of the grant or on ineligible clientele. For more information about eligible expenses, please reference the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Guide.

Where within El Paso County may these funds be used?

El Paso County CDBG funds are designated to serve Calhan, Fountain, Green Mountain Falls, Monument, Manitou Springs, Palmer Lake, Ramah, and unincorporated El Paso County.

Where within El Paso County may these funds NOT be used?

El Paso County CDBG funds cannot be applied to projects within the city limits of Colorado Springs.

Are there different funding restrictions within different project categories?

Public Service is El Paso County’s most competitive funding category, with the least amount of funding available due to a mandatory 15% allocation cap. All funding categories have low-and-moderate income (LMI) eligibility restrictions.