Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas communities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations will soon have an opportunity to compete for millions of dollars in state funding as applications open for the Fiscal Year 2027 Community Assistance Grant Program.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission announced that the application period for the program will begin on July 1, 2026. The initiative is designed to help communities address local challenges, expand economic opportunities, reduce poverty, and improve quality of life for residents across Arkansas.
The Community Assistance Grant Program operates as a 20 percent matching grant program, meaning recipients must contribute a portion of the project cost. State officials say the goal is to support projects that encourage long-term self-sufficiency while strengthening communities throughout the state.
During the current funding cycle, AEDC plans to distribute a total of $10 million through the program.
Eligible applicants include Arkansas cities, counties, and nonprofit organizations. Those selected may receive grants of up to $1.5 million per fiscal year for qualifying community development, economic development, and nonprofit projects.
Focus on community improvement and self-sufficiency
State leaders say the program is intended to support projects that create lasting improvements rather than short-term assistance.
“A strong state starts with strong communities,” said Governor Sanders. “That’s exactly what the focus of the Community Assistance Grant Program is: building stronger communities by supporting the organizations that directly impact the people who need help most. I’m excited to continue seeing progress from these projects that don’t just provide a handout, but a hand up – empowering Arkansans to build stability, find opportunity, and achieve greater self-sufficiency.”
Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald said local communities play an important role in the state’s economic success and deserve support as they work to meet the needs of residents.
“Arkansas continues to grow its economy thanks to the state’s business-friendly environment, low costs, and sound public policy. Our local communities are critical to this growth, and we aim to support them through the Community Assistance Grant Program,” said McDonald. “Helping communities thrive is a key priority for Governor Sanders and the Department of Commerce, and this program will play an important role in providing resources that communities and nonprofits need to tackle the issues facing Arkansans in their region.”
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission will oversee the grant process and review applications submitted during the funding period.
According to Clint O’Neal, the program is part of a broader effort to improve opportunities and economic outcomes throughout Arkansas.
“At AEDC, we are committed to helping Arkansans advance economically and become more successful,” said O’Neal. “The Community Assistance Grant Program is a statewide effort to provide the resources that communities need to revitalize and improve their quality of life.”
Priority areas identified for this funding cycle
Because interest in the program has been strong, AEDC plans to focus funding on projects that address several key issues affecting Arkansas residents.
Priority consideration will be given to initiatives that combat childhood food insecurity, reduce unemployment, support education, provide services for victims of crime, and expand access to housing, nutrition assistance, and emergency services.
Officials believe these areas offer opportunities to strengthen communities while helping individuals and families become more self-reliant.
Applicants receiving grants will be required to provide a 20 percent match. That contribution can come in several forms, including cash, donated labor, donated materials, or donated land. Final matching requirements will be determined during the application review process.
The application window will remain open from July 1 through August 15, 2026. State officials expect to announce funding recipients in early fall 2026.
With $10 million available and a focus on addressing some of Arkansas’ most pressing community needs, state leaders hope the Community Assistance Grant Program will continue helping local governments and nonprofit organizations deliver meaningful improvements across the state.
