Become a CBDO-ED

What is a CBDO-ED?

A Community Based Development Organization - Economic Development (CBDO-ED), is a non-profit entity certified by the State of Colorado, Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) to undertake projects funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. CBDO-EDs work within a specific geographic area to address critical problems, particularly for low- and moderate-income individuals, by improving physical, economic, or social conditions through activities like economic development projects.

CBDO-ED Requirements:

In order to be eligible for a CBDO-ED designation,  the organization's Charter, Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws and/or Board Resolution must include the following:

1. The organization is a non-profit organization that serves the clearly defined geographic area within the State of Colorado.
2. The organization's purpose includes engaging in community economic development activities to improve the physical, economic, or social environment of its geographic area of operation, with attention to the needs of low to moderate income individuals.
3. The Organization is a non-profit entity. All funds are reinvested to support its mission, and none of its earnings may be distributed for the personal gain of any individuals. No part of the Organization’s earnings may benefit any members, founders, contributors, or individuals.

The Organization is a qualified non-profit development group as defined by the Housing and Community Development Act 105(a)(15) as a:

Nonprofit Local Development Organization (LDC): private, nonprofit organization created to stimulate economic development and revitalize communities at the local level, often working in partnership with local government to achieve these goals
-OR-
Nonprofit Community Development Organization (CDC):a local, tax-exempt, non-profit organization focused on physical and social improvements in low-income or under-served communities. CDCs are legally classified as 501(c)(3) non-profits. 

The Organization meets the IRS definition of a non-profit, specifically as a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(6).

The Board of Directors formally approves and commits to having a Loan Review Committee that meets, at a minimum, the following criteria:

1. A representative who is considered Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) or meets one of the LMI criteria:
   1. Nonprofit employee that serves an LMI population
   2. Business owner with at least 51% of employees meeting LMI
   3. Elected Official of LMI designated area
   4. Owner of a business located in an LMI designated area.
2. A Banker with current or former lending and/or administration/management experience.
3. A current or former Business Owner.
4. A Community Representative as defined by Colorado’s Department of Local Affairs - must meet one of the following to fulfill the Community Representative requirement:
   1. Legal
   2. Accounting Professional
   3. Education (Business Related)
   4. Community/Economic Development
   5. Real Estate
   6. Elected Official
   7. Investor/Financial Services

Apply to become a CBDO-ED:

If you are interested in applying, please reach out to the CDBG-ED Program Manager:
Robyn Berkey
720-315-1526
robyn.berkey@state.co.us