Housing Readiness Incentive Grant Program
This program provides financial assistance to local governments in Michigan to adopt policies and make changes that promote affordable housing development.
Description
The Housing Readiness Incentive Grant Program (HRI program) is designed to support counties, cities, villages, and townships in implementing actions that increase housing supply and affordability. Administered by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), the program provides financial assistance to eligible entities seeking to adopt land use policies, update master plans, or amend zoning regulations to encourage housing development. The grant funding can also be used to hire consultants or support existing staff in executing these initiatives.
The program allows applicants to use funds for activities directly related to the adoption of housing-supportive policies, such as land use changes, zoning updates, and master plan modifications. However, studies, assessments, or surveys are only eligible if they result in tangible policy changes. Up to 10% of the grant funds may be allocated toward administrative expenses. Each eligible applicant may submit only one application for funding.
A total of $2,325,000 has been allocated for the program, with a maximum grant amount of $50,000 per award. No matching or leveraged funds are required. Grantees may receive funding in two disbursements: an initial advance upon execution of the contract and a final reimbursement upon completion of activities. As of January 31, 2025, $1,967,806 has been awarded, leaving $307,194 available for new applications.
Applications are reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Grants have an initial term of 24 months, beginning from the date of the award. The online application process is hosted through the IGX system, and applicants must create an IGX profile before submitting an application. The profile setup process can take up to 48 hours for approval.
Entities such as councils of government, universities, and for-profit or nonprofit organizations are ineligible to apply. Interested applicants should register in the IGX portal and submit their applications as soon as possible due to the limited remaining funds. Additional information can be obtained by contacting MSHDA at MSHDA-OHS@michigan.gov.