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Frequently Asked Questions
My community is 43.6% LMI, can we apply for any CDBG funds?
CDBG funds that directly benefit LMI persons/households may be applied for. For example: Housing Rehabilitation under the Housing Assistance program would directly benefit LMI households.
What is Low to Moderate Income (LMI)?
LMI is a median income factor determined annually by HUD for all Maine communities and families. The factor is important in determining meeting a National Objective of the CDBG program. To qualify as LMI a family’s income must be at or below the County median adjusted by family size. Income limits for families and communities may be found at Forms and Materials/Surveys.
Who is eligible to apply for CDBG funds?
All units of general local government in Maine, including plantations, except for the entitlement communities of Auburn, Bangor, Biddeford, Lewiston, Portland and all of Cumberland County with the exception of Brunswick and Frye Island are eligible to apply for and receive State CDBG program funds. County governments may apply on behalf of the Unorganized Territory. Groups of local governments may apply for multi-jurisdictional or joint projects. Multi-jurisdictional applications require designation of one local government as the lead applicant and consent for that designation by each participating local government. Counties may apply for the Economic Development or Public Service programs on behalf of a collaboration of communities. Eligible applicants, including counties as defined above may apply for CDBG assistance on behalf of the five Maine Indian Tribes. Maine Indian Tribes are not themselves eligible applicants.
What are the CDBG National Objectives?
All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:
- Benefit to low and moderate income persons;
- Prevention and elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
- Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency.
Do all CDBG programs require a Letter of Intent?
No. The only programs that require a Letter of Intent are Public Facilities, Public Infrastructure, Community Enterprise, Downtown Revitalization, Economic Development, and Public Service.
Where can I find answers to questions surrounding rules, regulations, permits, and licenses necessary to start a business?
DECD's Business Answers division is the one-stop shop for questions related to starting or running a business in Maine.
There seem to be a number of programs I might be eligible for but I don't know where to start. Is there someone who can guide me?
Yes, DECD has a network of highly trained Business Development Specialists who can help you. They will find out your needs, identify available programs, and guide you through the process. Visit the Find a Specialist page for more information.
