The mission of the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Division of Community and Regional Affairs is to administer and manage the Designated Legislative Grants program under the guiding statutes of the Alaska Statutes 37.05.315-37.05.325. This program supports community and economic development through the provision of grants for a variety of projects, in alignment with legislative appropriations and gubernatorial approval.
The Designated Legislative Grants program is aimed at supporting communities and organizations in securing funding for capital projects through their state senators and representatives. These projects can encompass a wide range of activities, including feasibility studies, construction projects, building improvements and upgrades, design and engineering tasks, land acquisition, and equipment purchase, upgrades, or repairs. Grants are appropriated by the legislature within the Capital Bill and require the final approval of the governor, who has the authority to reduce or veto project funding. This grant program is specified under Alaska Statutes 37.05.315-37.05.325, covering grants to municipalities, named recipients, unincorporated communities, and stipulates regulations for these grants.