CDC Capacity Fund
ABOUT THE FUND
The CDC Capacity Fund (CDC Fund) grant was established after a comprehensive research process, and with support from a 13-person advisory committee composed of Community LIFT’s community partners and local foundations, philanthropy, financial institutions, and CDCs. The research process and subsequent State of the Memphis CDC Industry report revealed that the local CDC sector is severely underfunded and operating with limited capacity, but with increased investment, can have a larger impact on the communities they serve. We developed the CDC Fund, the city’s only dedicated source of funding solely for CDCs, to help address Memphis’ broken cycle of community reinvestment activities.
The vision of the CDC Fund grant is to ensure a robust, effective network of CDCs that are capable of serving as quarterback agencies for scaled revitalization efforts that significantly enhance the quality of life in Memphis’ distressed neighborhoods, thus serving as catalysts for equitable economic growth and advancement.
ELIGIBILITY
The CDC Capacity Fund is exclusively for CDCs; other community-based organizations are ineligible to apply. To be clear, we define CDCs as nonprofit, community-based organizations focused on community engagement and physical and economic revitalization of the areas in which they are located, typically low-income, underserved neighborhoods that have experienced significant disinvestment. While their ultimate goal may be a comprehensive community redevelopment, CDCs generally focus on one or more program areas, such as housing development, economic development (job training, commercial development, small business assistance, etc.), neighborhood planning, infrastructure, and the development of community facilities.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, please contact Michael Cowan, Grants & Programs (901) 521-4232, michael@communitylift.org before beginning an application.
RFP CDC Capacity Fund 2024 CDC Capacity Fund Application CDC Capacity Fund Budget Templates
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Every great community initiative starts with a spark of inspiration. Whether you're dreaming of initiating a neighborhood project, organizing a local event, or transforming a personal hobby into broader community engagement, your vision has the power to shape our city. At Community LIFT, we understand the transformative effect of shared ideas and creative endeavors. We're here to help you narrate your story in a compelling way that resonates with the entire community, fostering connection, and making a lasting impact. Let's turn your idea into a reality that enriches our city and its people.