FloridaCommerce has announced the availability of funding through two military and defense grant programs. The application cycles are now open for the Florida Defense Reinvestment Grant (DRG) and the Florida Defense Support Commission (FDSC) Grant Programs, which aim to support military communities and installations across the state.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to be the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation, home to more than 20 major military installations, three combatant commands and numerous military-friendly universities and industry partners,” stated Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “These military and defense grant programs ensure that Florida’s military communities remain resilient—strengthening infrastructure, supporting rural communities, and driving economic and workforce development efforts throughout the state.”
Eligible applicants include defense-dependent local governments and economic development councils representing a local government with a military installation. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m., Eastern Time, on August 25, 2025, via email at DefenseGrants@Commerce.fl.gov for both grant programs.
The DRG provides support for community-based activities aimed at protecting existing military installations, diversifying the economy of defense-dependent communities, or developing plans for reusing closed or realigned military installations. Examples of previously awarded projects include One Okaloosa Economic Development Council’s strategies to protect local military installations and diversify their economy with STEM-based industries; Pinellas County’s redevelopment of a U.S. Department of Energy site into an industrial park; and Santa Rosa County’s Master Plan for land-leveraging related to a proposed land swap with the Navy.
The FDSC Grant Program offers awards to preserve Florida’s military installations while assisting with economic development efforts. Past projects funded by this program include Jacksonville Airport Authority’s construction project supporting fighter aircraft conversion; City of Jacksonville’s acquisition of easements near Naval Air Station Jacksonville; and Polk County’s easement acquisitions near Avon Park Air Force Range.
For questions or assistance regarding applications, contact DefenseGrants@Commerce.fl.gov. Updates will be posted on the Office of Military and Defense Military Community Programs page.
