The Distressed Cities Technical Assistance (DCTA) Program for Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025 is a funding opportunity issued by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This program is designed to provide technical assistance (TA) to Units of General Local Government (UGLGs) serving communities with populations of 50,000 or less that are experiencing economic hardship. Through this initiative, HUD seeks to enhance the capacity of these UGLGs and their nonprofit partners to effectively manage resources, comply with regulations, and pursue economic revitalization and stabilization efforts.

The program's objectives include improving fiscal health through enhanced financial management, strengthening administrative and organizational responsibilities, developing strategic resource management processes, and facilitating access to funding for economic development projects. The program aligns with HUD’s broader mission of supporting underserved communities and advancing equity in alignment with civil rights and fair housing laws. Awardees will provide support in areas such as needs assessments, direct TA, product development, group learning, knowledge management, outreach, and program administration.

A total of approximately $4.675 million is available under this funding opportunity for FY 2024, with additional funds anticipated for FY 2025. HUD plans to make about three awards per funding year. Awards will be issued as cooperative agreements, with HUD maintaining substantial involvement in the projects. Applicants may apply under one of two categories: (A) organizations capable of deploying TA across HUD’s jurisdiction or (B) entities specializing in specific regions, such as Appalachia, the Southeast, the Southwest, or U.S. territories. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to address the program’s objectives and customize TA delivery to meet the unique needs of individual UGLGs.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status), private institutions of higher education, for-profit organizations, and small businesses. Faith-based organizations may also apply. This program does not require cost sharing or matching funds. Applications must adhere to strict format and submission guidelines, including the use of standard HUD forms, a detailed budget, and narrative responses to the NOFO’s criteria.

Applications will be evaluated based on prior experience, organizational capacity, the soundness of approach, and an essential template submission. Additional consideration will be given for initiatives supporting racial equity and fair housing. HUD expects applicants to score at least 75 out of 102 possible points to be considered for funding. Successful applicants will enter into cooperative agreements with HUD and must comply with reporting and administrative requirements, including adherence to federal standards on nondiscrimination, environmental policies, and financial accountability.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by March 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Award notifications are anticipated by June 2, 2025, with project start dates around July 30, 2025. For additional details, applicants can contact HUD representatives or consult online resources specified in the NOFO.