The Illinois CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program, managed by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), provides grants to local governments for rehabilitating single-family, owner-occupied homes occupied by low-to-moderate income (LMI) households. This program aims to address housing needs, encourage neighborhood revitalization, and benefit LMI residents. A total of $7 million is available, with grants ranging from $300,000 to $650,000. Applications are due by December 4, 2024, at 5:00 PM CST.

Eligible applicants include units of general local government, such as cities, villages, and counties, but exclude HUD entitlement communities. Projects must rehabilitate a minimum of eight homes, with funding limited to $60,000 per unit. Eligible activities include structural repairs, energy efficiency upgrades, accessibility modifications, and lead-based paint treatment. Costs for general government operations, new construction, or maintenance are ineligible.

Applications must demonstrate community need, resident support, and project readiness, including public hearings and pre-qualified contractor commitments. A competitive merit-based review process evaluates proposals based on need, impact, coordination of resources, and readiness. Awardees must comply with federal regulations, including environmental reviews and Davis-Bacon labor standards.

For additional information, applicants can contact the DCEO Grant Help Desk at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or access application materials on the DCEO website.