Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, in partnership with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), announced the launch of the Community Assistance Grant Program, a new initiative aimed at helping grassroots efforts reduce poverty, boost self-sufficiency, and revitalize communities across the state.
To support the program, Governor Sanders is seeking approval from the Arkansas Legislative Council for a $15 million funding allocation.
If approved, the program will provide grants of up to $1.5 million per fiscal year to eligible applicants including local governments and community-based nonprofit organizations.
“The goal of the Community Assistance Grant Program is to fund programs that are making a real difference in Arkansans’ lives,” said Governor Sanders. “If we’re going to help every corner of our state thrive, then the effort is going to come from the bottom up – not just from the top down.”
The grants are designed to support projects that focus on key quality-of-life issues, including:
* Childhood food insecurity
* Unemployment
* Education access
* Crime victim support
* Housing, emergency services, and community revitalization
Sanders emphasized that the initiative aims to build upon the work already being done by local organizations like food banks, foster care networks, and advocacy groups, saying it reflects the state’s “neighbors helping neighbors” values.
AEDC Executive Director Clint O’Neal said the grants are part of a broader statewide strategy to strengthen local economies. “Across the state, we have great communities that need additional resources to revitalize and grow,” O’Neal said. “We are working to ensure that communities have these resources through the Community Assistance Grant Program.”
Applicants will be required to provide a matching contribution, which may include cash, in-kind labor, or land. Match requirements will be determined individually during the review process.
Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald added that the program aligns with the state’s economic momentum. “Arkansas is on an upward trajectory with one of the fastest growing economies in the nation. This program ensures that our local communities share in that growth.”
The application window opens May 19, 2025, and closes July 31, 2025. Funding decisions are expected to be announced in early fall 2025.
More details and application materials will be available through the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s official website.