SITE Program – Due Diligence

Golden LEAF has developed a list of due diligence items that will help demonstrate that a site is ready for development. This checklist includes items related to zoning, land use and property control, environmental considerations, site features, and utilities. Applicants may apply for funding to complete these due diligence activities. More information about these items can be found on the SITE Program – Due Diligence Overview document which explains the technical requirements. To access the Due Diligence Checklist or the Due Diligence Overview, please visit the SITE Program Resources page. The Golden LEAF Board will prioritize awards to projects located in rural and economically distressed counties and communities.

Use of Golden LEAF funds
Grantees will use Golden LEAF funds to hire third-party professionals to complete eligible due diligence activities. Golden LEAF funds may not be used for grant administration or acquisition of real property. Awards are not expected to exceed $50,000 in this phase.

Requirements

• Public ownership or control of the site for which due diligence will be completed. For information regarding public ownership or control, please see the Frequently Asked Questions and Glossary found on the SITE Program Resources page.
• Successful applicants will be able to show a plan for economic development and how completing due diligence will further the goals of that plan.
• 15% match commitment for projects in certain counties.  See the Frequently Asked Questions and Glossary on the SITE Program Resources page for more information about the match requirement.

Resources

CONTACT STAFF SITE PROGRAM RESOURCES

Available resources include:

• Frequently Asked Questions and Glossary
• Guidelines for each phase of the program including all application questions and checklist for required attachments
• Due Diligence Overview (explanation of technical requirements)
• Access to application portal

Application Deadline

Applications for the Fall 2023 round are closed. The application window for the Spring 2024 round will open in January 2024. Sign up for updates.

How to Apply

Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and governmental entities may apply.

• Review resources for the SITE – Due Diligence program, including detailed guidelines.
• For instructions on how to access the new grant portal for the first time, click here and select the appropriate quick reference sheet:
  • New applicants, select and follow the instructions for “How to Create an Account”.
  • Former applicants using the same email address used for a prior application, select and follow the instructions for “How to Log In”.
• If you already have an account in Golden LEAF’s new grant management system, click here to log in.
• Click “Apply for Funding” then “Apply for a Grant” in the SITE Program – Due Diligence section to access the application.