IEDA Releases 2026 CDBG Programs

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) released their 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) opportunities in December. Continuing programs include downtown revitalization (now called commercial façades grant), water/sewer(including stormwater), upper story housing and community facilities. New programs include:

Pocket Parks – rehabilitation or construction of a small park/recreation area. Maximum award of $150,000 with 25% match required.

Streetscapes – Eligible expenses include items such as streets, curb/gutter, lighting, sidewalks and benches. Award maximum is $250,000. To be eligible communities must have previously closed out a successful CDBG-DTR award.

Planning Grants – Can apply to historic district surveys, asset management plans and capital improvement plans. Maximum award amount is $15,000 and must be tied to a future CDBG application.

Housing Rehabilitation (Roof Replacement) - Eligible expenses include roof repair and lead paint remediation. Maximum award $30,000 per project for a maximum of six units (total $180,000). No match requirement.

Public Service Fund - Targets homeless providers and food pantry operations. Maximum award of $100,000 with a $5,000 match (cash or in-kind). Covers staffing and related expenses but no construction. Must be for new or increased level of service.

CDBG grant opportunities must generally serve low-to-moderate income populations, although how this criteria is met varies by grant. The application for new grant programs and water/sewer grants will open on March 2. Returning programs will open on June 3. To learn more, watch our latest Turbo Talk or view the slides here. We expect these programs to be highly competitive. Contact ECICOG Housing Director Paula Mitchell for additional information or if you have interest in applying, and she will direct you to the appropriate ECICOG specialist.