Program Description
The Economic Development Fund (EDF) finances projects and programs that create and/or retain jobs, improve the local and/or regional tax base, or otherwise enhance the quality of life in the community. EDF gives priority assistance for physical improvements in support of job creating/retention. Historically, EDF has funded a range of economic and community development projects. Currently, program funding is more limited and the following categories of assistance will be considered.
Community Grants
Physical Improvements Supporting Downtown and Commercial Center Economic Development
- Mixed-Use Development and Adaptive Re-Use of Buildings
- Public and Other Improvements Supporting Mixed-Use Development
Eligible Applicants
Of the 351 municipalities incorporated in Massachusetts, any of the 314 cities or towns not designated as "entitlement communities" by the US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) may apply for and receive Massachusetts Economic Development Fund grants. Currently, 37 cities and towns are designated as entitlement communities and are not eligible for the EDF program.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be reviewed for completeness, documentation of application/project thresholds, and responses to project-specific questions and comments (project conditions) included in DHCD's letter of invitation.
To be considered for funding, a proposed activity must meet all thresholds, and must address all project conditions to the satisfaction of DHCD.
In the event there are insufficient funds for all eligible applications, DHCD reserves the right to consider Economic Development Fund applications out of order of receipt based upon a review of the number of jobs to be created or retained, the impact of a project on the local tax base, such as increase in tax revenues, sudden job loss, levels of matching or leveraged funds, or other compelling circumstances.
Application/Project Thresholds
1) Economic Development Fund program threshold:
- Economic development activity
2) Massachusetts CDBG program thresholds:
- Eligibility
- National Objective
- Timely Commitment and Expenditure
- Displacement of Non-CDBG Funds
- Sustainable Development Principles
- Public Benefit Standards
- Community-Based Planning Requirement
How to Apply
EDF applicants will be evaluated according to a two-stage process. Online application through Mass CDBG/EDF web-based application. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year, based on funding availability. Contact program staff for assistance at 617-573-1400.
Program Forms
Appendix 2 Chapter 5 Monitoring Forms 
Budget and Program Revision Forms
Additional Program Information
EDF Application Guidance Information
Appendix A: Eligible CDBG Activities 
Appendix B: HUD Low and Moderate Income Data by City and Town
Appendix C: HUD Survey Methodology
Appendix D: Elderly Household Statistics by Community
Appendix E: Low and Moderate Income Limits
Appendix F: Management Organization/ Position Classification & Wage Schedule Guide
Appendix G: Primary Federal Regulations
Appendix H: Massachusetts Entitlement Communities (FY 2013)
Appendix I: Public Facilities Projects – Phases of Design
Appendix J: Baseline Information Form - Slums & Blight
Appendix K: Property and Infrastructure Rating Sheet – Slums & Blight
Appendix L: Green/Sustainable Space Building and Energy Star Guidance
Appendix M:
EDF Glossary of Terms
Appendix N:
EDF Job Monitoring Packet file size 2MB
Eligible CDBG Activities
HUD CDBG National Objectives
HUD Income Limits
CDBG Affordable Rent Schedule
Sample 2012 Income and Rent Limits Around the State
CDBG Grant Management System
Helpful Resources
MassDevelopment
US Small Business Association
State CDBG Guidebook
MA Small Business Development Center Network
USDA Rural Development
Contact
For additional information, please call the Division of Community Services at 617-573-1400