CDPP grants are awarded twice a year for capital projects for volunteer fire departments, emergency responders, cities and counties, schools, libraries, civic groups, museums and other tax-exempt nonprofit organizations. The projects must benefit or be available to an entire community and must improve the value of a capital asset by building, renovating or purchasing equipment.

Examples of recent awards include funding for emergency equipment for first responders; improvements to fire stations, parks, libraries and community centers; energy-efficient lighting and electrical upgrades for museums and community sports fields; air conditioning units for convention centers; rainwater catchment systems; and roof repairs and handicapped-accessible ramps for local museums and community halls.

Social service projects and limited-use facilities such as food pantries, transitional housing and substance abuse facilities are not eligible for CDPP funding. CDPP grants may not be used for planning or consultants, or training, workshops or seminars (with the exception of public firefighting organizations, including volunteer fire departments). Other ineligible projects include those that already are completed; in fundraising mode; religious sanctuaries or church-sponsored facilities that can be used only by members; land acquisition; debt-reduction campaigns; capital campaigns; program operating costs; administrative and/or indirect costs, such as personnel and overhead expenses, as well as grant writing and/or consulting fees; computer and/or video equipment or software; furniture; appliances; office equipment; or batteries.

Online grant applications are available in January and July.

Applicants requesting more than $5,000 in grant funding must supply matching funds of at least 20 percent of the total project cost. Grants larger than $25,000 are intended for particularly impressive and noteworthy projects with a far-reaching impact on a broad community. The larger grant category is extremely competitive, as funding in the $25,000+ category is limited to 30 percent of the grants awarded. There is a minimum request of $1,000.

The CDPP program places emphasis on projects for volunteer fire departments and those that address needs caused by wildfires or drought conditions, or include water conservation, energy efficiency or educational components.