Little Rock, Arkansas – In a major step aimed at uplifting struggling communities across the state, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today launched the Community Assistance Grant Program — a new initiative designed to empower local efforts that tackle poverty, support self-sufficiency, and drive neighborhood revitalization.
With backing from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), Governor Sanders is calling on the Arkansas Legislative Council to approve a $15 million allocation to jumpstart the program. If approved, the initiative will provide financial backing to cities, nonprofits, and other community-focused organizations to help them continue or expand vital services that improve the lives of Arkansans.
At the heart of the program is a simple idea: help should rise from the grassroots level. “If we’re going to help every corner of our state thrive, then the effort is going to come from the bottom up – not just from the top down,” Governor Sanders said in her announcement. “The goal of the Community Assistance Grant program is to fund programs that are making a real difference in Arkansans’ lives. I look forward to continuing my administration’s support for community-based programs that address some of the toughest the issues facing our state.”
Under the terms of the initiative, eligible applicants will be able to request up to $1.5 million per fiscal year. That money can go toward a wide array of projects — anything from fighting childhood hunger and tackling unemployment, to offering emergency shelter, education, nutrition programs, and services for victims of crime.
What makes this program distinct is its broad reach and flexibility. It’s built to support a wide range of needs — not just one type of service or demographic. The ultimate aim: build stronger, more resilient communities by giving local leaders the tools they need to lead change at home.
“Arkansas is on an upward trajectory with one of the fastest growing economies in the nation, low costs, and strong leadership,” said Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. “We are working to ensure that this momentum continues by supporting the growth of local communities with the Community Assistance Grant Program. Governor Sanders and the Department of Commerce are committed to helping communities in all corners of the state, and this program will help communities and nonprofits make an impact on the lives of Arkansans in their region.”
Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of AEDC, emphasized that many communities already have the passion and ideas—they just need the funding to bring their plans to life. “Across the state, we have great communities that need additional resources to revitalize and grow, which will boost Arkansas’ overall economic health,” O’Neal said. “Under Governor Sanders’ leadership, we are working to ensure that communities have these resources through the Community Assistance Grant Program – part of a statewide effort to improve quality of life in the Natural State.”
The grant program isn’t just writing blank checks. Applicants will be expected to match the awarded funds through cash, in-kind labor, or land contributions. That requirement ensures that local groups remain invested and engaged in the success of their projects. Each match requirement will be evaluated individually during the review phase, adding flexibility for organizations of all sizes and means.
The application window opens on May 19, 2025, and will close on July 31, 2025. Recipients of the grant are expected to be announced in early fall.
At a time when many families are still recovering from economic hardships, the launch of the Community Assistance Grant Program offers a fresh opportunity for small towns and urban neighborhoods alike. Whether it’s a food bank needing to expand, a shelter hoping to improve its facilities, or a nonprofit launching a literacy campaign, the funding promises to fuel initiatives that make a daily impact on people’s lives.
In Governor Sanders’ words, it’s all about that unique Arkansas spirit: “neighbors helping neighbors.” The grant program aims to translate that ideal into real-world action — and in doing so, push Arkansas toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.
For details on eligibility and how to apply, organizations are encouraged to visit the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s official website.
