The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program was established by Congress as part of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development was charged with overseeing administering this program and annually allocates funding to cities, towns and counties. This Act was amended in 1981 to permit states to provide CDBG funds to cities, towns, and counties with a population fewer than 50,000 residents. In partnership with local governments and a host of stakeholders, the Montana Department of Commerce administers CDBG funds on behalf of the State of Montana. 

Under the State CDBG Program, states award grants to cities, towns, and counties to develop and preserve decent affordable housing, to provide services to the most vulnerable in our communities, and to create and retain jobs. CDBG provides funding and technical assistance to help local governments plan for future growth and development, develop specific plans for individual projects, and take action to address community needs.

Our goal is to help empower local governments and communities across the state by building the capacity, resiliency, and resource base necessary to develop strong, vibrant communities and fund projects that principally benefit Montana’s low- to moderate-income households and individuals.