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Grants May 11, 2026 · CivicDynamics

Matching Funds Should Be Planned a Year Early

Local match is not a last-week paperwork problem. Kansas CDBG requires local funding for most projects and stresses committed, documented match; FEMA defines cost share as the non-federal share of a federally assisted project; and some USDA programs also require matching funds.

The practical takeaway

Keep a standing match inventory that lists reserve cash, utility funds, local sales-tax or bond options, partner contributions, eligible in-kind support, and the commitment letters you would need for each likely project type.

Why it matters for small and mid-sized communities

Smaller jurisdictions lose momentum when they chase grants first and financing second. A ready match strategy helps staff and elected officials tell the difference between a project that is truly grant-ready and a project that still needs local groundwork before it is worth applying.