This program is for nonprofit organizations seeking funding for community-driven real estate projects under the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership's Community Development Fund (CDF). This is a separate program from the SBGP Community Grants Program, with different rules and timing. The CDF accepts applications on a rolling basis but will not review applications for anything other than community-driven real estate projects.
Applicants preferably will be based in South Baltimore Gateway neighborhoods, work in those neighborhoods, or partner with an organization based in those neighborhoods. Click here to see the list of neighborhoods in the SBGP District.
NOTE: Projects awarded $50,000 and above are subject to meet minority and women's business enterprise (MBE/WBE) participation goals as required by the City of Baltimore Minority and Women’s Business Opportunity Office (MWBOO).
Eligibility requirements:
Individuals and for-profit businesses are not eligible to apply for Community Development Fund grants.
However, a for-profit development firm may partner with a non-profit applicant to execute a project. If so, the nonprofit applicant must enter into a separate pass-through agreement with the for-profit partner. Applicants proposing projects that they or family members will benefit from tangibly or financially are not eligible. For example, projects such as home renovations and improvements are excluded.
How are Applications Evaluated?
SBGP has a long and well-documented track record of ensuring that funds are distributed equitably across its District. In this case, the CDF is designed to support projects that align with SBGP’s Strategic Plan.
Each application, in addition to being reviewed by the SBGP staff, will also be analyzed by an independent consultant. As part of each review, the questions of whether the project is both strategic and feasible will be critical in deciding whether to support the project. As with all programs, SBGP strives to distribute funding equitably across District neighborhoods.
Additionally, before the decision by the Fund to support a given project is made, it must be approved by a committee of the SBGP Board, most of whom live or work in the SBGP District.
How to Apply
Community Development Fund (CDF) grant application is now open on a rolling basis.
See the CDF Frequently Asked Questions here.
All grant applications must be submitted electronically through SBGP’s web portal. (Paper based or emailed applications will NOT be accepted.)
Grant guidance and a copy of the application are available here for download to help you prepare to submit your application online:
Need help?
For questions, please contact our Community Development Fund Manager, Neal Friedlander.
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