Application Process Guide
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Access the Renew NC Grant Portal
Sign in to your Renew NC Grant Portal account.
New users must register for an account.
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Prepare Documents
Prior to beginning the application, review the table below for documents that will be needed for each section of the application.
Application Section Required Documents Suggested Documents A. Applicant Information SAM.gov Registration Certificate or screenshot Signature authority document B. Project Eligibility - Map of project area
- Tie-back documentation
HUD 2880 form C. Capacity of Applicant N/A - Documentation demonstrating internal financial control
- Most recent audit
- Organization charts
- Resumes of key project management staff
D. Community Need Public notice meetings N/A E. Project Information - Site control documentation (such as deed, purchase option, long term lease)
- Preliminary project cost estimates
Letters of support/commitment (for leveraged funds, identify source, amount, and status) F. Budget and Leveraged Resources N/A Budget Worksheet G. Achieving Results N/A - Sanction Copies
- Problems or Sickness Supporting Documentation
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Start an Application
Upon logging in, the participant dashboard will become visible, including a list of the program(s) available for new applications.
- Select “Start Application” next to the program that you would like to apply for.
- In the pop-up window that appears, enter in the case name using the format suggested ‘Organization Name – Project Name’.
- Select “Start Application” to begin the application process.
- Once the application page opens, select “Click here to continue” to move on to complete the application.
Important Notes:
Applicants must create a new application for each separate project they wish to submit. Multiple projects may not be combined or submitted under a single application. If you are applying for funding for more than one project, repeat the application process and complete a separate application for each project.
The application opens with the Program Overview. Review the program information, which describes the Community Infrastructure (CI) Program, the types of projects that may be funded, and the competitive framework NCDOC uses to evaluate applications.
The CI Program deploys CDBG-DR funding to aid local governments by funding stand-alone projects that address unmet disaster recovery needs arising from Hurricane Helene, and improvements to FEMA-assisted PA or HMGP funded projects that improve resiliency, useful life, or provide a housing recovery benefit.
After reviewing the overview, select the checkbox to confirm:
- I have read the program information and understand what this program entails.
After starting your application, complete each section listed in the left-hand navigation menu. Sections are lettered A through H, followed by the Submit section. As you finish each section, a green check mark will appear next to it. All sections must display a green check mark before the application can be submitted. Additionally, check that all required documents have been uploaded in each section of the application. The system will not allow the user to move on to the next section of the application until required documents are attached.
Use "Save & Next" at the bottom of each section to save your work and advance. You may return to any section at any time prior to submission to review or update your responses.
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Section A: Applicant Information
Applicants must be an eligible legal entity:
- Units of local government
Provide accurate, complete details for each field. Incomplete applications will not advance past threshold review.
Legal Entity
A.1. Legal Name of Applicant Entity
A.2. Type of Entity
A.3. Mailing Address
A.4. Does your legal entity have an active SAM.gov registration?
Upload the SAM.gov Registration Certificate or screenshot (required).
A.5. Who is the organization's authorized signatory (name/title)?
Attach the Signature Authority Document/Form.
Primary Contact
A.6. Primary Contact Name
A.7. Primary Contact Title
A.8. Primary Contact Phone Number
A.9. Primary Contact Email
A.10. FEIN
Note: If a third-party designee will work on this application on your behalf, complete the designee fields (first name, last name, email address, and organization legal name) and authorize the designee to act on your behalf, including making decisions. Please add additional users from your organization (including all third-party designees) by clicking "View Users" at the top of the left panel of this application.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section A: Applicant Information in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
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Section B: Project Eligibility
Before you begin this section, make sure you have the following required documents:
- Map of Project Area
- Tie-back documentation
Instructions: Complete all fields in this section. Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed project:
- Meets an eligible activity under 42 U.S.C. 5305(a);
- Satisfies a CDBG-DR National Objective (LMI Benefit, Slum/Blight, or Urgent Need);
- Directly ties back to unmet needs caused by Hurricane Helene; and
- Is located within a HUD-identified or State-identified MID county.
Application Questions
B.1. Project Title
B.2. Project Address
B.3. Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) Area
As outlined in HUD’s 2025 Revised Universal Notice, at least 80% of funding awarded to the State must be spent to benefit the HUD-identified MID areas, with up to 20% permitted to benefit the State-identified MID areas. Select the MID Area in which the project will be located.
B.4. Floodplain Location (Y/N)
Indicate whether the project is located within the 100-year floodplain or floodway. Refer to HUD and FEMA floodplain definitions.
B.5. Temporary Relocation Requirements (Y/N)
Will a residential or commercial tenant need to move out of the building for the planned project activity?
B.6. Acquisition Activities (Y/N): Will there be acquisition as part of the project?
B.7. FEMA or U.S. Army Corps Funding
Is this project eligible for, or have you applied for, FEMA-PA or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funds for this project? HUD requires DCR to verify that CDBG-DR funds will not be used for activities reimbursable by, or for which funds are made available by, FEMA or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
B.8. Target Area / Site Description
Identify the geographic boundaries of the project and surrounding community (include map or parcel list). Upload a Map of the Project Area (required).
B.9. Link to Unmet Need
Explain how CDBG-DR funding will address unmet needs not covered by insurance, FEMA, or other assistance. Describe gaps in funding and why CDBG-DR is required to complete the project.
B.10. Tie Back
Does your project tie back to Hurricane Helene either indirectly or directly, or does your project mitigate future disaster events? Every proposed activity must clearly demonstrate a tie-back to Hurricane Helene through causation (the damage or economic disruption occurred because of Helene) and necessity (the activity is needed to restore, replace, or mitigate against that damage). Describe the connection between Helene’s impacts and the proposed project, pre- and post-disaster conditions, and any supporting documentation. Upload Tie-back Documentation (required).
B.11. National Objective(s)
Select the applicable CDBG-DR National Objective and provide the required narrative and documentation based on the selected objective:
- Low- and Moderate-Income Area Benefit (LMA)
- Low- and Moderate-Income Clientele (LMC)
- Urgent Need
- Slum/Blight
B.12. HUD 2880 Form
Complete the HUD 2880 Form and upload it here.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section B: Project Eligibility in the left-hand navigation menu.
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Section C: Capacity of Applicant
Before you begin this section, make sure you have the following required documents:
- Organization Charts
- Key Project Staff Resumes
Instructions: Applicants must demonstrate the skill and experience necessary for implementing the proposed services and performing all grant functions, including financial management and compliance. Where needed, applicants are encouraged to leverage the grant management support of partners such as Councils of Government (COG), the NC League of Municipalities, the NC Association of County Commissioners (NCACC), the UNC School of Government (SOG), and others.
Application Questions
C.1. Experience Managing Federal and State Grants
Describe the lead applicant/organization’s experience administering federal or state grants such as CDBG, CDBG-DR, ARC, ARPA, HOME, HTF, LIHTC, or similar programs. Include types of grants previously managed, the scope and complexity of past projects, performance history (timeliness, compliance, reporting), and any open findings or unresolved audit issues.
C.2. Comparable Project Experience
Provide examples of similar projects your organization has completed on time and within budget. For each, describe the project type and scope, funding sources, timeline and completion status, and key lessons that inform readiness for this project.
C.3. Key Project Management Staff
List key project management staff and their qualifications (staff name, title, qualifications, and time dedicated).
C.4. Financial Management and Internal Controls Documentation
Upload your most recent audit and/or documents showing the organization’s internal financial control structure. Examples include written financial policies and procedures, procurement policies, organizational charts showing financial oversight roles, and narrative descriptions of internal controls.
C.5. Partner Support
If the lead applicant will receive significant grant management support from a partner (e.g., COG, League of Municipalities, NCACC, SOG, or third-party contractor), reference the partnership and the partner’s role in providing specific needed capacities for the project.
C.6. Supporting Documentation
Upload other documentation that supports the capacity of the applicant, including Organization Charts (required) and Resumes (required).
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section C: Capacity of Applicant in the left-hand navigation menu.
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Section D: Community Need
Before you begin this section, make sure you have the following required documents:
- Publicly Noticed Meetings (e.g. meeting minutes, sign-in sheets, notices)
Instructions: This section documents the critical unmet need the project addresses in the area impacted by Hurricane Helene. Provide complete and detailed responses. Include references to studies, assessments, community input, and local recovery plans where applicable.
Application Questions
D.1. Protection and Benefits for Vulnerable Populations
Select all populations this project will support (elderly individuals; persons with disabilities; families with minors; other groups disproportionately affected by the disaster). Describe how the project will protect and benefit the public, with emphasis on vulnerable populations and protected classes, including how it enhances safety, access to services, and long-term resilience.
D.2. Mitigation, Hazard Risk Reduction, and Alignment with the Action Plan
Explain how the project meets HUD’s definition of mitigation by reducing current or future hazard risks to people and property. Address the specific risks the project responds to (flooding, structural failure, utility failures, etc.), how the project reduces those risks, and where these risks are identified in the North Carolina Action Plan’s Mitigation Needs Assessment.
D.3. Community Engagement, Partnerships, and Public Input
Describe the community engagement process used to shape the project, including public meetings, hearings, or consultations; stakeholder feedback; partnerships with community organizations, businesses, or local leaders; and any resolutions or formal endorsements. Upload Publicly Noticed Meetings documentation (e.g., meeting minutes, sign-in sheets, notices) (required).
D.4. Alignment with North Carolina CDBG-DR Action Plan Priorities
Explain how the project aligns with the Community Infrastructure priorities listed in the Action Plan (select one): critical infrastructure; community benefit and long-term recovery; or resilience and hazard mitigation.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section D. Community Need in the left-hand navigation menu.
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Section E: Project Information
Before you begin this section, make sure you have the following required documents:
- Site Control Documentation (such as deed, purchase option, long term lease)
- Preliminary Project cost Estimates
Instructions: Applicants must show that the project is feasible, resilient, and ready for timely implementation. "Soundness of Approach" is the highest-weighted scoring factor and reflects readiness, design quality, mitigation, and management capacity.
Application Questions
E.1. Project Narrative
Provide a clear description of the proposed project, including the scope of work (construction, site improvements, system repairs, mitigation components, etc.), key infrastructure components and services affected, the unmet need the project addresses, how the project will benefit the community, and project objectives and expected outcomes.
E.2. Project Timeline
Identify key project milestones, including design and engineering, permitting and approvals, procurement, construction phases, and the anticipated completion date. Explain how your timeline supports timely completion and meets CDBG-DR expenditure deadlines. Most projects are expected to target expenditure by December 2030, and all Hurricane Helene CDBG-DR funds must be fully spent by July 29, 2031. Describe readiness to proceed (status of design, permitting, site control, etc.).
E.3. Site Control
Describe the applicant’s current control of the project site (e.g., ownership, long-term lease, purchase option). Upload Site Control Documentation (required).
E.4. Site Readiness
Describe the current level of site readiness, addressing zoning approvals, infrastructure access, and permits needed or secured, as applicable.
E.5. Partners and Commitments
List public, private (business), and nonprofit partners; attach MOUs or letters of commitment. For leveraged funds, identify the source, amount, and status.
E.6. Governance and Project Management Structure
Describe the governance and project-management structure (roles, decision-making process, meeting frequency).
E.7. Environmental Review Status
All CDBG-DR projects require an environmental review under 24 CFR Part 58, and no choice-limiting actions (such as acquisition, construction, or demolition) may occur before HUD issues the Authority to Use Grant Funds (AUGF).
E.8. Resilience & Mitigation Performance Measures / Financing & Contingency Plan
Describe how the design will meet resilience and sustainability standards (flood mitigation, hazard resilience). Provide a plan that demonstrates efficiency and sustainability, including mitigation strategies to avoid delays or funding gaps and contingency or reserve funds to address potential cost increases. Summarize resilience measures in the table provided (resilience feature, purpose/expected risk reduction, estimated cost, and cost contingency).
E.9. Preliminary Cost Estimates and Reasonableness
Provide realistic cost estimates supported by industry tools or contractor bids, including engineer or contractor estimates supporting cost reasonableness. All costs must comply with 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart E. Identify the source of the preliminary cost estimate, attach a copy (required), and describe how the project will determine and document cost reasonableness and ensure compliance with procurement requirements.
E.10. Construction Management and Oversight
Describe your construction management and oversight plan, including responsible staff and contractors.
E.11. Compliance with Federal Labor and Cross-Cutting Requirements
Explain how the project will ensure compliance with the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA), Section 3 requirements, and other federal cross-cutting regulations (procurement, civil rights, environmental, etc.). Identify the staff or consultants responsible for ensuring compliance.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section E: Project Information in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
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Section F: Budget and Leveraged Resources
Instructions: Provide a detailed financial plan identifying total project costs, committed leverage, and the proportion of non-CDBG-DR funding.
Application Questions
F.1. Total Project Cost
F.2. CDBG-DR Funds Requested
F.3. Other Leverage Committed
F.4. Leverage Ratio (Non-CDBG-DR : CDBG-DR)
F.5. Percentage of Total Project Costs Covered by Non-CDBG-DR Funds
Financial Disclosure
Disclose all sources of financial assistance for the project. CDBG-DR funds cover unmet needs after other funding (FEMA, SBA, insurance, tax credits, private, philanthropic). Attach relevant award letters, settlement statements, or commitments. Failing to disclose may lead to repayment or disqualification. A duplication-of-benefits (DOB) analysis will ensure compliance with the Stafford Act and HUD’s 2025 Revised CDBG-DR Notice.
For each funding source, record the type (grant/loan/insurance), purpose/scope covered, amount, and status (pending/received). Sources may include FEMA-PA, FEMA-MIT, SRF-H, capital grants, insurance, EDA, small business assistance, CDBG-HR, ARC, Golden Leaf, and other sources.
Optional
Attach a detailed budget worksheet (sources and uses) consistent with your preliminary engineering report or other project cost estimation/planning document.
Note: Environmental review costs are estimated at $100,000 and are included in the Total Project Cost calculation. The State will serve as the Responsible Entity and will conduct the environmental review. This amount is not entered nor modified by the applicant. The totals in the budget table cannot exceed the award cap for the CI Program.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section F: Budget and Leveraged Resources in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
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Section G: Achieving Results
This category assesses the anticipated outcomes and long-term benefits of the project, such as improved access, economic growth, community development, environmental benefits, and long-term value.
Instructions: Describe how the proposed infrastructure project will improve the wellbeing of low- to moderate-income residents, including how it will broaden access to essential services and economic opportunities; support community development, health, safety, and quality of life; promote environmental sustainability or lower carbon emissions; and enhance long-term resilience to natural disasters.
Application Questions
G.1. Access to Services
How will the infrastructure project enhance access to services for low- to moderate-income residents? Include evidence of need, goals, and long-term results.
G.2. Economic Growth
How will the project affect low- to moderate-income individuals via economic growth, increased industry, and/or improved services? Provide evidence of need, goals, and long-term outcomes.
G.3. Quality of Life
How will the project enhance quality of life for low- to moderate-income individuals through community development, better living conditions, and social cohesion? Include evidence on health issues, safety, costs, goals, and long-term benefits.
G.4. Environmental Benefit
How will the project benefit the environment by enhancing sustainability and/or reducing carbon emissions? Provide evidence of health and safety concerns, project goals, and long-term estimated results.
Is this a Water and Sewer Project?
Select yes or no.
If yes: If this is a water and sewer project, complete items G.5 through G.23, which capture disaster-related sickness or problems within the MID area, water loss and corrections, storage/pressure/I&I problems, contamination levels, current sanctions, water and sewer context and maintenance responsibilities, customers benefiting, methodology, plant capacity and usage, LMI provisions, line extensions and customers per mile, regionalization, facility replacement, mandatory hookup requirements, and current and projected connection rates. Upload Sanction Copies and Problems or Sickness supporting documentation as applicable.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section G: Achieving Results in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
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H. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
All applicants must certify that proposed activities will comply with applicable federal and state regulations governing the use of CDBG-DR funds.
Review the full list of assurances and certifications in this section. By signing, the applicant assures and certifies, among other items, that it:
- Possesses legal authority to apply for the grant and execute the proposed program activities;
- Has secured all necessary internal approvals or governing-body authorizations;
- Has facilitated, or will facilitate, all citizen participation requirements;
- Will primarily benefit targeted income persons and meet a national objective for each activity;
- Will cooperate with the State as the responsible entity under NEPA and 24 CFR Part 58, with no choice-limiting actions before HUD issues the AUGF;
- Will comply with 2 CFR Part 200, 24 CFR Part 85, and 24 CFR 570, Subpart J;
- Will follow all applicable federal procurement, labor, and nondiscrimination requirements (including Davis-Bacon, Section 3, Title VI/VIII, Section 504, ADA, and related authorities);
- Will comply with the Uniform Relocation Act, conflict-of-interest provisions, the Copeland Anti-Kickback Act, the Hatch Act, and lobbying disclosure requirements;
- Will provide access to records, comply with the Single Audit Act, flood insurance requirements, and historic preservation and environmental authorities; and
- Is not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from federal assistance programs.
Apply the electronic signature where it is indicated to certify the assurances in this section.
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Application Submit
In the Submit section, the applicant certifies that:
- The information provided in this application is true and complete to the best of the applicant’s knowledge;
- The project will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies governing CDBG-DR funds, including those set out in Section H; and
- If, after submission, any material information changes while the application is pending with DCR, the applicant will disclose and update that information with DCR as soon as practicable.
Complete the authorized signatory certification to proceed to final submission. Detailed steps for reviewing completion status, certifying, electronically signing, and submitting are described in the Submission section that follows.
The Submit section is the final step to review, certify, and submit the application.
Review Completion Status
Before submitting, confirm that all application sections display a green check mark in the left-hand navigation menu.
- A green check mark indicates the section is complete.
- A gray or missing check mark indicates required information or documents are still missing in that section.
If the Submit button is inactive or unavailable, review each section to locate and complete any missing fields or uploads.
Participants may select any section in the left-hand menu to review or update information prior to submission.
Certification and Electronic Signature
To proceed with submission:
- Select the checkbox to certify that the information provided in the application is true and complete to the best of the signer’s knowledge.
- Under Authorized Signature, select "Click here to electronically sign."
- Enter the signer's full name as prompted.
- Select "Sign" to apply the electronic signature.
Once the signature is successfully completed, the signer's name is displayed under Authorized Signature.
A confirmation message appears indicating the email address of the signer and the date and time the application was electronically signed.
Submit the Application
- Select "Complete & Submit."
- A confirmation window will appear with a message explaining that once the application is submitted, no additional edits can be made unless the application is re-opened by a Program Administrator.
- Applicants must choose one of the following options:
- Cancel – Returns you to the Submit page without submitting. The application remains editable.
- Proceed – Confirms submission and formally submits the completed prescreen.
Selecting "Proceed" completes the submission process.
After selecting "Proceed" on the submission confirmation window, the system displays the Application Submitted screen.
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After Application Submission
After you submit your application, you can:
- Review your submitted application by selecting any section in the left-hand navigation menu.
- Use Print Application to download or print a copy for your records.
- Select "Print Application" from the left-hand panel.
- This will generate a printable version of your submitted application, downloaded to your browser.
Please note:
- Submitted applications are read-only and cannot be edited.
- No additional action is required from the applicant unless contacted by the program.