The Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission (PMCEC) Local Defense Group Grant (LDG Grant) is a program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The purpose of the grant is to support projects that enhance the military value of installations and organizations in Pennsylvania. This funding is aimed at assisting local defense groups—nonprofit organizations or governmental entities—that have a vested interest in the success and sustainability of military installations within the state. The grant program is designed to strengthen these installations and their surrounding communities by supporting activities that analyze, promote, and develop military assets.

Eligible applicants include local defense groups that can propose projects demonstrating a clear course of action using state funding to enhance military value. Proposals undergo review by the DCED and the PMCEC, which assess eligibility and determine funding amounts. Once reviewed, selected local defense groups receive an invitation to formally apply for the grant.

Funding can be used for a variety of activities, including conducting studies to assess and enhance the military value of installations, economic impact analyses, joint land use studies, consultant hiring for military retention efforts, and activities related to federal base realignment and closure (BRAC) processes. Other eligible uses include infrastructure development to enhance military facilities, advocacy efforts to protect military installations, and administrative costs associated with grant management. Administrative costs are reimbursable up to 10% of the total grant budget, with a maximum of $15,000, unless further justification is provided.

The application process requires submission through the DCED Electronic Single Application for Assistance portal. Applications are accepted throughout the fiscal year, and grants are awarded on a rolling basis, contingent upon fund availability. The program prohibits the use of funds for lobbying state officials or costs incurred outside the scope of work outlined in the grant contract. Applicants must also comply with Pennsylvania’s nondiscrimination policies.

Project close-out requirements include maintaining accurate records and submitting an audit for grants exceeding $100,000. Grants below this threshold require the completion of a Grant Close-Out Report (GCR), both of which can be accessed via DCED's compliance resources.

For inquiries and further information, applicants should contact Mr. Peter Witmer, Deputy Director of the Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission at the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. He can be reached at (717) 720-1323 or via email at pwitmer@pa.gov. Additional resources and application guidelines are available on the DCED website.