DHCD has announced that it will award up to $2 million in operating grants to neighborhood-based partner organizations in Baltimore City.  The program, known as the Community Catalyst Grants, is being administered through DHCD to support locally driven community development work.

This initiative was first announced in June and is being funded with an initial $5 million investment from DHCD.  Funds from this competitive grants program will be awarded in two rounds, beginning with operating allowances totaling $2 million, followed by an additional $3 million in capital grants.

Eligible organizations could include community development corporations, neighborhood-based development organizations, umbrella organizations, and other neighborhood-based organizations.  Additionally, qualifying projects will help advance neighborhood revitalization and transformation. Applications for operating funds are due Nov. 30, and awards will be disbursed in January.  

DHCD hosted an information session to further engage interested applicants late last month. Stacy Freed, Senior Advisor to the Chief Operating Officer, answered questions from attendees.