Screenshot of the Delaware Database for Funding Resilient CommunitiesThe Institute for Public Administration (IPA) at the University of Delaware, with support from Delaware Coastal Programs, conducted an extensive search of financial assistance programs that support the implementation of resiliency-building plans and projects in Delaware and compiled the findings into an accessible and intuitive online searchable database. While planning and technical assistance programs were identified and included, IPA’s search prioritized financial assistance programs that support the implementation of high-cost activities such as infrastructure improvements, facility retrofitting, construction, and land acquisition.

Use the sorting feature to quickly and easily filter programs by four categories:

  • Type of assistance offered (grant, loan, etc.)
  • Project scope (land acquisition, energy efficiency retrofits, etc.)
  • Amount of financial assistance available
  • Whether or not matching funds are required

After making these selections, a list of search results will appear. Then click on the program title to reveal more in-depth information.

Visit www.sppa.udel.edu/research-public-service/ddfrc to utilize the database.

“States throughout [the Mid-Atlantic region] should view this effort in Delaware as a best practice and look for opportunities to form partnerships and compile resources for resiliency projects that are specific for their states,” officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said in their winter 2017 resilience report on innovative strategies to improve community resiliency for the Mid-Atlantic region.

“Navigating the abundance of grant programs can be challenging, and many communities may be unaware of every program available to them,” wrote FEMA in the report. “This user-friendly web tool inventories resources that support resilient community development, including funding programs for disaster preparedness, disaster recovery, education, planning, property acquisition, stormwater management, and storm-proofing projects.”


This project was prepared for the Delaware Coastal Management Program using federal funds under award NA14NOS4190123 from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC). The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NOAA or the DOC.