Local Planning Capacity Grant Program (CO)

Local Planning Capacity Grant Program (CO)

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Colorado Department of Local Affairs
Amount: Up to US $250,000
Last Updated: October 15, 2025

Summary

The Local Planning Capacity Grant Program (CO) aims to enhance the abilities of local government planning departments to tackle affordable housing challenges. By facilitating the development review, permitting, and zoning processes, the program prioritizes support for local governments implementing fast track requirements from Proposition 123. Grants up to $250,000 are available, with a 20% minimum cash match required. This initiative seeks to bolster local planning efforts, increase affordable housing units, and fulfill Prop 123 commitments.

Overview

NOTE: Pre-Proposal - This deadline represents when the applicants must schedule a pre-application meeting with the LPC Program Manager. The purpose of this meeting is to get feedback on the proposed project and technical assistance before submitting an application.Full Proposal  - This deadline signifies when the Application is due. Local Planning Capacity Grant Program (CO) The intent of the program is to increase the capacity of local government planning departments to address affordable housing, especially by expediting development review, permitting, and zoning of affordable housing. The top priority for funding award decisions is to support local governments’ efforts to implement the new fast track requirements(opens in new window) in Proposition 123 but grant funds can also support increasing planning department capacity to advance local affordable housing goals, implement strategies to increase the number of affordable units built, and to achieve Prop 123 commitments. Funding Suggested maximum award is $250,000. Larger grant requests may be considered, particularly for multi-jurisdictional projects. This program requires a 20% minimum cash match by local governments. An applicant experiencing extreme financial hardship may request a reduced match waiver from program staff before submitting their application.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Eligible entities include municipalities, counties, and tribal governments whose Prop 123 baseline and commitment(opens in new window) have been accepted by DOLA.Collaborative, multijurisdictional or regional projects are allowed, with one entity acting as the lead fiscal agent for the application and project implementation.Awards are made directly to local or tribal governments, and may include partnerships with housing authorities or other nonprofits.Eligible Project Types & Activities: Projects are generally considered allowable/eligible if they are:focused on land use planning or community development activities; andwill lead to new development or preservation of affordable housing; oradd capacity to a local and tribal government’s planning and permitting work to achieve Proposition 123 requirements (fast track or unit counts).

Ineligibility

Ineligible expenses: LPC grant funds cannot cover job posting or recruitment costs, indirect overhead or general operating costs, housing construction, land acquisition, lobbying/election-related activities, food, entertainment, or other items typically not allowed under 2 CFR 200 Cost Principles