Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) How to apply for a CDBG grant
Eligible South Carolina towns, cities and counties begin the CDBG application process by submitting an application request to SC Commerce. This initial request allows the program team to review the proposed project before the applicant prepares a full application.
Before you apply
Only eligible units of general local government may apply for State CDBG funding.
Before requesting an application, review the current CDBG Application Guidelines for funding categories, eligibility requirements, national objectives and application instructions.
Request an application
Most Community Development Program funding is awarded competitively through two funding rounds each year. Business Development and Ready to Go Program funding is available on a rolling basis.
Application requests for competitive Community Development funding must be submitted at least 30 days before the application deadline. Requests for Business Development and Ready to Go funding may be submitted at any time.
Community Development application request
Use this form to request an application for:
- Community Infrastructure
- Community Enrichment
- Local Priorities
Business Development application request
Use this form to request an application for Business Development or Ready to Go Program funding.
2026 funding deadlines
Spring funding round
Community Infrastructure
- Application request deadline: March 20, 2026, by 5 p.m.
- Application deadline: April 20, 2026, by 5p.m.
- Application requests: March 20, 2026, by 5 pm
- Applications: April 20, 2026, by 5 pm
Fall funding round
Community Enrichment and Local Priorities
- Application request deadline: August 21, 2026, by 5 p.m.
- Application deadline: September 21, 2026, by 5 p.m.
- Applications: September 21, 2026, by 5 pm
Rolling applications
Application requests for Business Development and Ready to Go Program funding may be submitted at any time.
Applicants are encouraged to submit requests before the required 30-day deadline to allow time for project review, clarification and application preparation.
Why is an application request required?
The application request gives SC Commerce basic information about the proposed project and allows the CDBG team to determine whether it appears eligible and consistent with program requirements.
If a project does not appear eligible, the team may help the applicant explore potential adjustments, identify another eligible project or consider other funding resources when appropriate.
What happens next?
After reviewing the request, the CDBG team will contact the applicant with feedback and next steps.
Projects that appear eligible may proceed to the full application process.
Submitting an application request does not guarantee eligibility or funding.
Partner programs & contacts
Several federal housing and community development programs serving South Carolina are administered by partner agencies. Contact information for each program is provided below.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
South Carolina Department of Commerce
Business Incentives and Community Development
1201 Main Street, Suite 1600
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803) 734-0429
Fax: (803) 734-0485
TDD: (803) 734-1046
Email: [email protected]
Website: sccommerce.com
HOME Investment Partnerships Program & National Housing Trust Fund Program
South Carolina Housing Finance and Development Authority
300-C Outlet Pointe Boulevard
Columbia, SC 29210
Phone: (803) 896-9001
TDD: (803) 896-8831
Website: schousing.sc.gov
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program
South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803) 734-1962
Email: [email protected]
Website: oeo.sc.gov
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)
South Carolina Department of Public Health
STD/HIV Division
Mills/Jarrett Complex, Box 101106
Columbia, SC 29211
Phone: (803) 898-0198
Website: dph.sc.gov
Need help with the application process?
The CDBG team can help eligible local governments understand program requirements, determine which application request to use and prepare for the application process.
Phone: 803-734-0429
Looking for additional program materials?
Access CDBG manuals, forms, policy guidance, training materials and administrative resources.
