2012 Community Focus Fund Grants

By Scott A. Miller, CPA, Partner, December 14, 2011
Latest News

If your community is considering applying for a Community Focus Fund (CCF) grant, there will be just one scheduled funding round in 2012, rather than the two rounds that have historically been available.

This change, coupled with an anticipated 12% funding cut in Indiana’s Community Development Block Program, means you need to move projects forward early in the year and have a competitive application to be successful.

CFF grants are reserved for the most underserved and in-need areas of the state. Communities applying for a CFF grant must fit OCRA criteria, including having more than 51 percent of the population classified as low- to moderate-income or be designated a slum or blighted area by local resolution.

The funds may be used for water, sewer or storm drainage projects; downtown revitalization; libraries; senior, daycare or community centers; historic preservation; special needs buildings and healthcare centers.

Your project must be ready to start immediately and expect to be completed within 18 months after receiving the award.

Proposals must be submitted to the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) by February 10. Applications will be due April 20, and OCRA will announce awards on July 13.

OCRA will continue to fund the maximum number of grants possible as determined by the state’s annual community development block grant allocation. Moving to a single funding round will streamline the program’s application process and allow OCRA to operate more efficiently.

CFF grants are federally funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, but are administered in Indiana by OCRA as part of its community initiative to enhance Indiana communities.

Umbaugh, in conjunction with your certified grant administrator, can assist you in developing the financial information required for the CFF grant application for your community. If you have questions or need help with a CFF grant application, please contact us at footnotes@umbaugh.com.

Give Article Feedback »    |    E-mail Umbaugh »    |    Print Article »

Information in this article was believed current as of the date of publication. As you know, changes occur frequently. The information presented is of a general educational nature. Before applying to your specific circumstances, please contact us at footnotes@umbaugh.com.