The State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program is administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and provides funding to State and Tribal Governments for the construction and renovation of State/Tribal-owned and operated Veterans Extended Care Facilities. The program aims to improve and expand facilities that provide skilled nursing, domiciliary, and adult day health care services to veterans. The funding supports the construction of new facilities, renovations, and life safety improvements.

The grant program operates under the authority of Public Law 117-58 (Build America, Buy America Act). This law mandates that all iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in funded projects must be produced in the United States. The law applies to all infrastructure projects but does not cover temporary equipment or movable furnishings. The program is regulated under 38 CFR Part 59, which outlines requirements for project eligibility, funding limitations, and application submission procedures.

The Department of Veterans Affairs may fund up to 65% of the total project cost, with the remaining 35% to be covered by the applicant. The estimated total funding available for this program is $171,000,000, with award amounts ranging from $260,000 to $171,000,000, depending on the scope of the project. Eligible projects include new construction, renovations, and facility expansions, including bed replacement projects and adult day health care programs.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but for inclusion in the FY 2026 Priority List, applications must be submitted by April 15, 2025. Applicants submitting for the first time must provide a complete initial application (Section A of the project checklist) through Grants.gov. Once retrieved by the VA, the applicant will receive a confirmation email along with an FAI number for further submission tracking in MAX.gov. Renovation and life safety projects require specific documentation, while new construction and bed replacement projects require additional detailed planning and certification forms.

Eligible applicants are limited to State Governments and Federally Recognized Native American Tribal Governments. No private organizations, nonprofits, religious institutions, or individuals are eligible to apply. Projects must comply with state and federal construction requirements and provide documentation such as budget justification worksheets, state-authorized certifications, occupancy assessments, and financial plans.

For questions and further assistance regarding the grant application process, potential applicants may contact the State Home Construction Grant Program via email at VHA12GECSVHConstructionInquiries@va.gov.