FloridaCommerce announced today that funding is available through the Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant and Florida Defense Reinvestment Grant programs to benefit military communities and installations across the state. Applications will be accepted until October 4, 2024, with further details accessible on the Office of Military and Defense’s Military Community Programs page.
“Since 2019, FloridaCommerce has invested more than $27.2 million in military community programs, and we are proud to contribute to Governor DeSantis’ mission in making Florida the most attractive state for current and future military missions,” said FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly. “Eligible defense communities are strongly encouraged to apply for this unique funding opportunity to support military installations, communities, families, and their local economies.”
Eligible applicants include defense-dependent local governments and economic development councils representing a local government with a military installation potentially affected by federal actions. Applications must be submitted via email by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on October 4, 2024, to DefenseGrants@commerce.fl.gov.
The Florida Defense Infrastructure Grant Program (DIG) supports local infrastructure projects that enhance the military value of installations within the state by addressing issues such as encroachment, transportation and access, housing, utilities, communications, environment, and security needs. Funds are allocated for projects benefiting both local communities and military installations. Previous DIG funds have supported initiatives like:
- The City of Key West’s construction of a reinforced concrete Community Center Resilience Hub for use during hurricanes.
- Polk County's acquisition of land parcels surrounding Avon Park Air Force Range to limit development impacting wetlands and wildlife conservation corridors.
- Walton County's improvement of the intersection at State Road 20 and County Road 83A West to enhance safety and operational efficiency for Eglin Air Force Base employees.
The Florida Defense Reinvestment Grant Program (DRG) provides support for community-based activities that protect existing military installations or develop plans facilitating the reuse of closed or realigned installations. DRG funds have previously been awarded to projects such as:
- Clay County's Strategic Sites Inventory Program cataloging shovel-ready sites along the First Coast Expressway.
- The City of Jacksonville's analysis on Department of Defense budget priorities affecting Northeast Florida bases.
- Miami-Dade Beacon Council's plans promoting the future Miami-Dade Aerospace Technology Hub.
For additional questions or assistance with applications, contact DefenseGrants@commerce.fl.gov. Updates regarding the application cycle will be posted as an addendum on the Office of Military and Defense’s Military Community Programs page.