Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced a new statewide initiative designed to empower local communities, combat poverty, and strengthen vital services. The Community Assistance Grant Program, introduced in collaboration with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), will provide significant financial support to cities and nonprofit organizations working to improve quality of life across Arkansas.
In a key move to get the program off the ground, Governor Sanders is also requesting $15 million in funding from the Arkansas Legislative Council (ALC) to support the grant’s first phase.
Funding Arkansas from the Ground Up
The program is tailored to help applicants such as community-based nonprofits and municipalities obtain funding for crucial services. Eligible groups may apply for up to $1.5 million per fiscal year to support efforts aimed at reducing poverty and promoting community revitalization.
The grant will prioritize initiatives that combat childhood food insecurity, unemployment, and provide support in areas such as education, crime victim advocacy, housing, nutrition, and emergency services. The goal is to strengthen self-sufficiency in every part of the state.
“If we’re going to help every corner of our state thrive, then the effort is going to come from the bottom up – not just from the top down,” said Governor Sanders. “The goal of the Community Assistance Grant program is to fund programs that are making a real difference in Arkansans’ lives. I look forward to continuing my administration’s support for community-based programs that address some of the toughest the issues facing our state.”
The initiative reflects Arkansas’ broader vision to support grassroots efforts. Through this grant, nonprofits such as food banks, foster care support networks, and crime victim services will gain the resources they need to make an impact. It also reflects a deep belief in community collaboration and neighborly action: “the definition of the ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ mentality that defines our state.”
A Strong Commitment to Local Growth
Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald emphasized the importance of leveraging Arkansas’ economic momentum to support vulnerable communities. “Arkansas is on an upward trajectory with one of the fastest growing economies in the nation, low costs, and strong leadership. We are working to ensure that this momentum continues by supporting the growth of local communities with the Community Assistance Grant Program,” he stated.
Echoing that message, Clint O’Neal, executive director of the AEDC, highlighted the broad potential of the program: “Across the state, we have great communities that need additional resources to revitalize and grow, which will boost Arkansas’ overall economic health. Under Governor Sanders’ leadership, we are working to ensure that communities have these resources through the Community Assistance Grant Program – part of a statewide effort to improve quality of life in the Natural State.”
Application Details and Matching Requirements
The application period for the Community Assistance Grant Program opens May 19, 2025, and will remain open through July 31, 2025. Funding decisions are expected to be announced by early Fall 2025.
Applicants will need to match grant funds with either cash, in-kind labor, or in-kind land contributions. The required match amount will be determined individually during the review process.
To learn more and apply, visit the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s official website.
