Looking for funding in Florida to bring your post-disaster community vision to life?

Posted on by Brenna Moran

2023 – 2024 Storms

Looking for disaster recovery grants in Florida? The Florida Department of Commerce is distributing $925 million in Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to 47 storm-impacted counties from the 2023–2024 storms. This guide breaks down how your community can compete for and win these critical infrastructure and housing recovery grants.

CDBG-DR Grant Breakdown: Housing vs. Infrastructure

  • $434 million is allocated to the Housing Repair and Replacement Program, assisting low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents. Individuals apply directly—local governments only need to help spread the word.
  • $425 million is available for infrastructure recovery, split between the Infrastructure Repair Program ($400M) and Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program (HMGP) ($25M).

Who Can Apply for CDBG-DR Infrastructure Grants?

Only local governments (cities and counties) and state agencies can apply directly. However, school districts, nonprofits, hospitals, and utility providers can participate as co-applicants. Now is the time to formalize partnerships and create Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs).

Florida CDBG-DR Funding Eligibility by County

Understanding your county’s eligibility is crucial:

  • Blue counties: Compete for $340 million
  • Green counties: Compete for $85 million
  • Yellow counties: Received direct HUD funds (not eligible)
  • Gray counties: Not impacted (not eligible)

Use this classification to plan your competitive CDBG-DR application strategy.

What Types of Infrastructure Projects Are Eligible?

Start with your community’s long-term recovery plan or gather stakeholders to brainstorm storm-related projects. Examples include:

  • Water, sewer, and drainage system repairs
  • Road, bridge, and debris cleanup
  • Emergency services buildings (police/fire stations, shelters, clinics)
  • Flood mitigation and hazard reduction systems

CDBG-DR can also be used as a match for FEMA’s HMGP program—a great fit for rural communities that struggle with the 25% match requirement.

Prioritize Projects in LMI Areas

Most CDBG-DR funds (80%) must benefit low- to moderate-income areas. Use the HUD LMISD Map Tool (2016–2020) to locate eligible Census Block Groups. If your project isn’t in an LMI area, consider expanding the service area, conducting an income survey, or qualifying it as an Urgent Need (20% funding category).

Fast-Track Your Application: 6 Key Steps

To make your CDBG-DR application more competitive:

  1. Define your scope of work and obtain a realistic cost estimate
  2. Secure site control (land ownership or access)
  3. Get early government approval to submit the grant
  4. Leverage other funding sources like FEMA for stronger proposals
  5. Review past CDBG-DR guidelines (e.g., Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Sally)
  6. Document disaster tie-back to 2023–2024 storm impacts

CDBG-DR isn’t just about rebuilding—it’s about building back better and smarter.

Download the Full Free Guide

Need Help Navigating the CDBG-DR Grant Process?

OVID Solutions, authors of this guide, offer free brainstorming sessions and professional grant development support. With decades of experience and millions in grant wins, their team can help you strategize and submit a competitive infrastructure grant application.

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