FY26 CDBG Public Service Agency Grants Available

Notice of Funding Opportunity

January 21, 2025                                                                                                                                                              

The Portsmouth Community Development Department is now accepting applications for the City FY 2026 Public Service Agency Grant program. The funding for this program is provided by a Community Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is contingent on the City receiving its FY 2026 (HUD FY 2025) grant award from HUD. This is a competitive program that makes grants generally ranging from $3,000 up to $20,000 available to non-profit public service agencies serving Portsmouth individuals and families who earn very low, low or moderate incomes. Funds may be used for operating and programming expenses during the program year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026. Note that available public services grant funds are limited and capped by CDBG regulations. Historically and depending upon the annual federal grant award, seven to nine agencies serving Portsmouth low-moderate income clients have been awarded these grants yearly.

Eligible agencies must have a 501(c)(3) tax exemption status and at least over 51% of their clients must earn very low, low or moderate incomes as defined by HUD. Eligible grant expenses include the cost of labor, supplies, and/or materials required for the provision of services to agency clientele. Agencies that have received funding in the previous year must also be able to demonstrate that they can either increase the number of clients they assist or the services they provide in the coming year. The deadline for submission of applications to the City of Portsmouth Community Development Department is 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. In order to be considered for funding, applications must be received by that date and time. 

To request an application or to obtain more information about the CDBG Public Service Agency Grant Program, please email CommunityDev@cityofportsmouth.com