About the Community Economic Development (CED) Program

Community Economic Development (CED) is a federal grant program funding Community Development Corporations that address the economic needs of individuals and families with low income through the creation of sustainable business development and employment opportunities.    

CED's projects create employment opportunities that lead to increased self-sufficiency for individuals with low income through a variety of activities, such as:

• Capital expenditures such as the purchase of equipment or real property;
• Allowable operating expenses; and
• Loans or equity investments.

CED funds a variety of projects, including:

• Business incubators;
• Shopping centers;
• Manufacturing businesses; and
• Agricultural initiatives.

The CED program was born out of the War on Poverty, which began in 1964 with the Economic Opportunity Act. Learn more in the video, which provides a background and history of the War on Poverty and where we are as a country over 50 years since the effort to expand economic opportunity began.

CED awards funds to private, non-profit organizations that are community development corporations (CDCs), including faith-based organizations, and Tribal and Alaskan Native organizations. CDCs must be governed by a three-party board of directors that includes residents of the community served, and local business and civic leaders. CDCs must have as their principle purpose planning, developing or managing low-income housing or community development projects. Note: CED funds cannot be awarded to individuals. If you are an individual looking for employment, please view the active CED projects in your state. 

Additional CED Resources:

• CED Fact Sheet
• CED Resources Page
• CED Legislation
• Current CED Grantees
• Reports to Congress

For more information, contact:
Rafael J. Elizalde, Program Manager
Community Economic Development Program
Office of Community Services
Phone: 202-401-5115
OCSgrants@acf.hhs.gov