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Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application Guide

Key Application Dates

Application Opening Date: December 8, 2026
Submission Deadline: February 12, 2027, by 4:00 PM (Eastern Standard Time)


Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted for review.

Program Overview & Applicant Eligibility

The Ocean County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides federal funds to develop viable communities by providing decent housing, suitable living environments, and expanded economic opportunities. Funding is strictly available to qualified municipalities within the Ocean County Urban County Qualification and registered non-profit organizations (501(c)(3)) serving low- and moderate-income residents.

File Download Instructions

To access the CDBG application files, use the left-side menu. To download a file, right-click the link and choose "Save Link As" to save it to your device. Check your browser's download button to locate saved files. If prompted, select "Keep" for the file.

The Application Process

The application process is divided into key steps designed to guide applicants through submission and compliance.

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

Ensure your proposed project aligns with HUD's eligibility criteria and supports the priorities in the Consolidated Plan and Three-Year Objectives. All projects must:

• Meet one national objective.
• Align with a matrix code and eligible activity.
• Support Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) residents by benefiting one of the following:

      • LMC (Low- and Moderate-Income Clientele): Directly benefit at least 51% LMI individuals or families.

      • LMA (Low- and Moderate-Income Area): Target a geographic area where at least 51% of the residents are LMI.

Ocean County LMA Mapping Criteria

Ocean County identifies eligible Low- and Moderate-Income Areas (LMAs) by mapping Census Block Groups where low- and moderate-income persons make up greater than 51% of the population.

This geographic eligibility is determined by the American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Low- and Moderate-Income Summary Data (LMISD). To view these specific boundaries, toggle the LMI data layer within the interactive
Ocean County Planning - GIS Data Explorer.

Step 2: Project Proposal

Submit a detailed project proposal that outlines objectives, expected outcomes, and how the project will benefit LMI residents. Be sure to include a comprehensive budget and an implementation timeline.

Step 3: Review and Approval

Proposals undergo a thorough evaluation to assess alignment with community needs and county strategic goals. Approved projects receive funding allocation based on available resources and priority needs and objectives.

Step 4: Implementation and Reporting

Once funded, implement the projects according to the Subrecipient Agreement (contract) approved timeline and plan. Submit regular performance and financial reports to track progress, ensure compliance with HUD regulations, and demonstrate the project’s impact.