LANSING, Mich. — The Housing Readiness Incentive Grant Program will soon expand eligibility to counties, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority announced.

The change is made possible by updated language in the budget supplemental signed last week by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The 2023-24 supplemental also included an additional $1 million in funding for the program for the remainder of the state’s fiscal year, ending Sept. 30.

Local units of government can apply for up to $50,000 to assist with costs associated with adopting land use policies, master plan updates, zoning text amendments and similar activities that increase housing supply and affordability. This work may be performed by existing and/or contracted employees, and/or third-party consultants.

“The Housing Readiness Incentive Grant Program has already supported over 100 cities, villages, and townships in every corner of Michigan, as we do everything in our power to solve this housing crisis,” said Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and executive director. “We’re grateful to the Legislature and Governor Whitmer for approving and funding its expansion.”

The online application site will open to counties Monday and will remain open until funding has been exhausted. Applications will be reviewed by MSHDA and awarded as they are received. In addition to the $1 million added this year in the supplemental, the 2024-25 state budget included $2.325 million more for this program, starting Oct. 1.

For details and access to the application portal, visit the Housing Readiness Incentive Grant Program page on MSHDA’s website at https://www.michigan.gov/mshda/neighborhoods/housing-readiness-incentive-grant-program.