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Miami-Dade County is embarking on an exciting new era of economic growth and opportunity with a focus on supporting small and local businesses.
Under the leadership of Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava, the county’s commitment to building a thriving economy for all residents is clearer than ever. Among the many initiatives designed to promote economic inclusion and job creation is the Special Economic Development (SPED) program, a key component of the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
The SPED program, which is part of the larger Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) initiative, is a vital resource for businesses in Miami-Dade County. It offers forgivable loans to businesses that are expanding or in need of capital to grow, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. The primary goal of the program is to create job opportunities for low-to-moderate income (LMI) residents, ensuring that Miami-Dade’s economic development is inclusive and equitable.
How the SPED program works
As of Dec. 10, 2025, Miami-Dade County’s Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD) has been accepting applications for the CDBG-SPED Request for Applications (RFA). The RFA remains open until all available funding has been fully allocated. This program provides forgivable loans to businesses that meet specific qualifications, with the primary condition being the creation of permanent, full-time jobs for LMI residents.
To be eligible for funding, businesses must meet a series of requirements:
For-profit business: The business must be a for-profit entity, and either expanding or established.
Tax return history: Applicants must provide three years of tax returns to demonstrate financial stability.
Proof of site control: This includes submitting documents like a recorded title or an executed lease agreement to verify that the business has control over its property.
Location: The business must be located within Miami-Dade County at the time of application.
Job creation commitment: Businesses must commit to creating at least one full-time job for every $35,000 in SPED funding. In 2025, businesses are required to create a minimum of two jobs.
The economic impact of SPED
The SPED program is particularly significant because it focuses on job creation for low-to-moderate income residents, a crucial factor in reducing economic disparity in Miami-Dade County. By providing funding to growing businesses, the program not only helps to strengthen the local economy but also directly contributes to the creation of employment opportunities that benefit the wider community.
This initiative is an essential part of Mayor Levine-Cava’s vision for an economy that benefits all residents of Miami-Dade. The program aligns with other local efforts aimed at supporting small businesses, such as the Parks Department’s FIT2lead initiative, Strategic Procurements Small & Local business outreach, the DTPW’s Easy Perks program, and the Miami-Dade Library Systems’ YOUmake Miami program. Together, these programs form a robust network of support for small businesses across the County, helping them grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
A vision for Miami-Dade’s future
Mayor Levine-Cava’s administration has made it clear that a prosperous Miami-Dade economy is one that works for everyone. Through programs like SPED, the county is ensuring that small businesses can access the resources they need to expand and create jobs for all residents, regardless of income. By investing in these businesses, Miami-Dade is investing in its people, fostering a more equitable economic environment where opportunity is accessible to all.
For businesses that meet the eligibility criteria, the SPED program represents a unique and valuable opportunity to secure funding that can fuel growth while simultaneously giving back to the community. As Miami-Dade continues to grow, initiatives like the SPED program will be vital in creating a future where economic prosperity is shared by all.
Apply today
If you are an expanding business based in Miami-Dade County, the CDBG-SPED program may be the perfect opportunity to take your business to the next level. For more information and to apply, visit the Miami-Dade Housing & Community Development website at www.miamidade.gov/global/housing/requests.page.
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