Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
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Inter-American Development Bank: 'Bridging Skills and Employment: A Review of Advanced Digital Skills Training, Online Labor Market Programs, and Innovative Training Methodologies'
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following white paper in Decembr 2025 entitled "Bridging Skills and Employment: A Review of Advanced Digital Skills Training, Online Labor Market Programs, and Innovative Training Methodologies."
Here are excerpts:
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1. Introduction
Digital technologies are reshaping labor markets, creating both new demands and possibilities for the design of active labor market policies (programs that support individuals' integration into the labor market). In many countries, a considerable proportion of firms are unable to
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WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following white paper in Decembr 2025 entitled "Bridging Skills and Employment: A Review of Advanced Digital Skills Training, Online Labor Market Programs, and Innovative Training Methodologies."
Here are excerpts:
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1. Introduction
Digital technologies are reshaping labor markets, creating both new demands and possibilities for the design of active labor market policies (programs that support individuals' integration into the labor market). In many countries, a considerable proportion of firms are unable tofind workers with the necessary digital skills to fill their job vacancies (e.g., Novella and RosasShady, 2023a; 2023b; Baptista et al., 2023a). This has fueled growing interest in training programs aimed at equipping jobseekers with digital skills, as well as in training modalities that leverage emerging digital tools.1 Yet, evidence on the effectiveness of these programs remains limited, particularly rigorous impact evaluations based on credible estimation strategies. This document reviews the evidence from 26 such evaluations, 15 of which were published in 2024 or later. Despite the limited evidence base, policy recommendations are beginning to emerge regarding program design. These interventions show promise in achieving their intended outcomes, but also reveal important limitations that policymakers should address.
The present paper analyzes three types of interventions: (i) digital skills bootcamps and other advanced digital skills training programs; (ii) programs to improve online labor market outcomes; and (iii) Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and other new methodologies of delivering training programs. Before turning to the systematic review of the literature, we first summarize some of the main findings on the effectiveness of these three types of programs: Digital skills bootcamps and other advanced digital skills training programs. Only nine studies have evaluated these programs using robust empirical methods -- a surprisingly small number for an industry that generated over USD $800 million globally in training alone in 2024.
Moreover, the limited evidence that does exist largely focuses on short-term impacts.
Evidence suggests that these programs can support transitions into technology-related jobs and increase earnings in some contexts, particularly when they included direct employer linkages (such as internships), but overall labor market impacts and cost-effectiveness remain unclear. Some studies suggest that null results for overall employment may be due to participants holding out for tech jobs rather than accepting lower-skilled positions for which they are already qualified.
Programs to improve online labor market outcomes. Evaluations of these programs raise important questions about scalability, accessibility, and long-term effectiveness. While some programs -- particularly those delivered online -- offer potential for scale, low completion rates persist as a major challenge. Complementary interventions to boost completion, such as personalized tutoring, have raised costs (e.g., to over USD $700 per person) without generating proportional improvements in completion or impact. Moreover, evidence suggests that while many participants gain initial access to digital platforms, their success is often shortlived without strong technical skills and job-matching support. In-person training appears to be more effective in improving completion rates.
MOOCs and other new methodologies of delivering training programs. Evidence of these programs offers valuable insights for scaling effective training interventions, though it also reveals key limitations. For example, while MOOCs have the potential to distribute content at scale, a significant downside is their low completion rates, often in the single digits -- with males, wealthier individuals, and those with strong non-cognitive skills being more likely to complete them. This pattern of selective completion suggests that while providing free access to MOOCs theoretically offers high-quality training to all, economic constraints -- such as the cost of sustained internet access or the opportunity cost of time -- still likely affect course completion. As a result, MOOCs may primarily benefit those who already have the resources and skills to engage fully. Light-touch interventions, such as reminders, have proven insufficient to improve completion rates. Similarly, emerging evidence on generative AI-based training tools suggests that these technologies can effectively boost productivity, but evidence on who benefits the most is mixed.
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View full text here: https://publications.iadb.org/publications/english/document/Bridging-Skills-and-Employment-A-Review-of-Advanced-Digital-Skills-Training-Online-Labor-Market-Programs-and-Innovative-Training-Methodologies.pdf
[Category: IADB]
U.S. Chemical Safety Board Issues Interim Safety Recommendations to U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works Following Fatal Explosion
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The U.S. Chemical Safety Board issued the following news release:
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U.S. Chemical Safety Board Issues Interim Safety Recommendations to U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works Following Fatal Explosion
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) today issued two interim safety recommendations in connection with the agency's ongoing investigation into the August 11, 2025, fatal explosion at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works facility in Clairton, Pennsylvania.
The explosion occurred when coke oven gas was released from process piping in the Battery 13/14 transfer
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WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The U.S. Chemical Safety Board issued the following news release:
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U.S. Chemical Safety Board Issues Interim Safety Recommendations to U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works Following Fatal Explosion
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) today issued two interim safety recommendations in connection with the agency's ongoing investigation into the August 11, 2025, fatal explosion at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works facility in Clairton, Pennsylvania.
The explosion occurred when coke oven gas was released from process piping in the Battery 13/14 transferarea at the facility and ignited. Two U.S. Steel employees were killed in the explosion, four additional employees and a contractor were seriously injured, and six other workers suffered non-hospitalization injuries. The explosion also severely damaged nearby structures.
Although the CSB's investigation is in its early stages, the agency already has identified potentially unmitigated hazards for workers at Clairton Coke Works that warrant immediate attention. The CSB's interim recommendations are intended to address those potential hazards.
Chairperson Steve Owens said, "Even though our investigation into this terrible tragedy is ongoing, the CSB is issuing these initial recommendations to ensure that workers at the Clairton Coke Works facility are not put in harm's way hereafter."
The CSB's first recommendation calls on U.S. Steel to perform a thorough evaluation of all buildings at the Clairton Coke Works facility that are currently occupied or could be occupied to identify and assess any potential hazards to workers based on where the buildings are located. The CSB's investigation has determined that both of the fatally injured workers and two of the five seriously injured workers were inside or near buildings in the area where the explosion occurred. The CSB also has found that the occupied buildings in the Battery 13/14 transfer area were not capable of protecting occupants from explosion hazards. U.S. Steel already has rebuilt the damaged Battery 13 and 14 coke oven gas supply piping in almost the same location and layout as it was prior to the explosion. Although the company is relocating the control rooms for Battery 13/14 to a building approximately 100 feet away from the area, the CSB has concluded that without a facility siting evaluation, it is not clear that U.S. Steel has chosen a safe location to relocate its workers.
The CSB also has found that the Clairton Coke Works facility operates four other coke batteries with personnel-occupied buildings located near potentially hazardous processes. The facility siting evaluation recommended by the CSB also would identify and assess hazards that may exist in these other buildings as well.
The CSB's second recommendations calls on U.S. Steel to address and reduce any safety risks identified in the facility siting evaluation, following accepted industry safety principles.
Investigator in Charge Drew Sahli added, "Without a comprehensive facility siting evaluation, it is not clear that workers are being relocated to buildings that are safe from future fires, explosions, or toxic releases."
Additional findings and analyses from the CSB's ongoing investigation, as well additional recommendations, if any, will be included in the agency's final investigation report when it is issued.
The CSB is an independent, nonregulatory federal agency charged with investigating incidents and hazards that result, or may result, in the catastrophic release of extremely hazardous substances. The agency's core mission activities include conducting incident investigations; formulating preventive or mitigative recommendations based on investigation findings and advocating for their implementation; issuing reports containing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations arising from incident investigations; and conducting studies on chemical hazards.
The agency's board members are appointed by the President subject to Senate confirmation. The Board does not issue citations or fines but makes safety recommendations to companies, industry organizations, labor groups, and regulatory agencies such as OSHA and EPA.
Please visit our website, www.csb.gov. For more information, contact Director of External Affairs Hillary Cohen at Hillary.Cohen@csb.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.csb.gov/us-chemical-safety-board-issues-interim-safety-recommendations-to-us-steel-clairton-coke-works-following-fatal-explosion/
SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Minnesota Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Skyline Tower Apartment Complex Fire and Severe Water Damage
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Disaster Assistance issued the following news release:
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SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Minnesota Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Skyline Tower Apartment Complex Fire and Severe Water Damage
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WASHINGTON - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for Minnesota businesses, private nonprofits, and residents affected by the Skyline Tower apartment complex fire and severe water damage occurring Oct. 26. The SBA issued a disaster
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WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Disaster Assistance issued the following news release:
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SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Minnesota Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Skyline Tower Apartment Complex Fire and Severe Water Damage
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WASHINGTON - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for Minnesota businesses, private nonprofits, and residents affected by the Skyline Tower apartment complex fire and severe water damage occurring Oct. 26. The SBA issued a disasterdeclaration in response to a request received from Gov. Tim Walz on Dec. 19.
The declaration covers the primary county of Ramsey and the adjacent counties of Anoka, Dakota, Hennepin, and Washington in Minnesota, which are eligible for both physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA.
Businesses and private nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.
"When disasters strike, SBA's Disaster Loan Outreach Centers play a vital role in helping small businesses and their communities recover," said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. "At these centers, SBA specialists assist business owners and residents with disaster loan applications and provide information on the full range of recovery programs available."
SBA's EIDL program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 3% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant's financial condition.
Beginning Monday, Dec. 29, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in the primary county of Ramsey to answer questions about SBA's disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.
The DLOC hours of operation are listed below:
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Ramsey County
The Sanneh Foundation
1276 University Ave W
St Paul, MN 55104
Opening: Monday, Dec. 29, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Temporary Closed: New Years Day, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Permanently Closing: Jan. 10, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Feb. 20, 2026. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Sep. 22, 2026.
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.sba.gov/article/2025/12/23/sba-offers-disaster-relief-minnesota-small-businesses-private-nonprofits-residents-affected-skyline
Fannie Mae Releases November 2025 Monthly Summary
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- Fannie Mae issued the following news release:
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Fannie Mae Releases November 2025 Monthly Summary
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WASHINGTON, DC - Fannie Mae's (FNMA/OTCQB) November 2025 Monthly Summary is now available. The monthly summary report contains information about Fannie Mae's monthly and year-to-date activities for our gross mortgage portfolio, mortgage-backed securities and other guarantees, interest rate risk measures, and serious delinquency rates.
Follow Fannie Mae
fanniemae.com
On X: @FannieMae
Media Contact
Kelly Antonacci
202-752-4647
Fannie Mae Newsroom
https://www.fanniemae.com/news
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- Fannie Mae issued the following news release:
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Fannie Mae Releases November 2025 Monthly Summary
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WASHINGTON, DC - Fannie Mae's (FNMA/OTCQB) November 2025 Monthly Summary is now available. The monthly summary report contains information about Fannie Mae's monthly and year-to-date activities for our gross mortgage portfolio, mortgage-backed securities and other guarantees, interest rate risk measures, and serious delinquency rates.
Follow Fannie Mae
fanniemae.com
On X: @FannieMae
Media Contact
Kelly Antonacci
202-752-4647
Fannie Mae Newsroom
https://www.fanniemae.com/news
Photo of Fannie Mae
https://www.fanniemae.com/resources/img/about-fm/fm-building.tif
TOPICS
* Fannie Mae Corporate
* Financials
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Original text here: https://www.fanniemae.com/newsroom/fannie-mae-news/fannie-mae-releases-november-2025-monthly-summary
Fannie Mae Publishes December 2025 Economic and Housing Outlook
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- Fannie Mae issued the following news release:
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Fannie Mae Publishes December 2025 Economic and Housing Outlook
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WASHINGTON, DC - Fannie Mae's (FNMA/OTCQB) monthly economic and housing outlook, published by the Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group, is now available. The forecast files, which contain the ESR Group's expectations for mortgage rates, single-family and multifamily originations, home prices, and real GDP growth, among other data points, can be found here.
Additionally, going forward, Fannie Mae will use its website, fanniemae.com, as the primary
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WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- Fannie Mae issued the following news release:
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Fannie Mae Publishes December 2025 Economic and Housing Outlook
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WASHINGTON, DC - Fannie Mae's (FNMA/OTCQB) monthly economic and housing outlook, published by the Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group, is now available. The forecast files, which contain the ESR Group's expectations for mortgage rates, single-family and multifamily originations, home prices, and real GDP growth, among other data points, can be found here.
Additionally, going forward, Fannie Mae will use its website, fanniemae.com, as the primarychannel of distribution for its Economic and Strategic Research Group publications, including its monthly economic and housing forecasts and quarterly home price index research products. The company intends to disseminate future Economic and Strategic Research Group releases on its website, fanniemae.com, under "Data and Insights," and does not intend to publish a press release announcing the publication of this information to its website. The company expects to continue to publish the economic and housing forecasts on a monthly basis and the home price index on a quarterly basis. Investors and others should review the information the company makes public through this channel, as such information could be deemed to be material information. For more, visit the Data and Insights page at fanniemae.com.
Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae's Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae's business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current, or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.
Follow Fannie Mae
fanniemae.com
On X:@FannieMae
Media Contact
Matthew Classick
202-752-3662
Fannie Mae Newsroom
https://www.fanniemae.com/news
Photo of Fannie Mae
https://www.fanniemae.com/resources/img/about-fm/fm-building.tif
TOPICS
* Fannie Mae Corporate
* Data and Insights
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Original text here: https://www.fanniemae.com/newsroom/fannie-mae-news/fannie-mae-publishes-december-2025-economic-and-housing-outlook
EPA Accelerates Crackdown on Toxic and Poisonous Imports in Concert with CBP, Keeping Americans Safe
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Accelerates Crackdown on Toxic and Poisonous Imports in Concert with CBP, Keeping Americans Safe
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EPA enforcement leadership joined CBP officials in southern California for an imports inspection demonstration and tour of the Port of Los Angeles to reinforce coordination and information-sharing.
SAN PEDRO, Calif. - On Friday, December 19, 2025, newly confirmed Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall, who oversees the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Enforcement and Compliance
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Accelerates Crackdown on Toxic and Poisonous Imports in Concert with CBP, Keeping Americans Safe
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EPA enforcement leadership joined CBP officials in southern California for an imports inspection demonstration and tour of the Port of Los Angeles to reinforce coordination and information-sharing.
SAN PEDRO, Calif. - On Friday, December 19, 2025, newly confirmed Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall, who oversees the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Enforcement and ComplianceAssurance (OECA), and his Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Craig Pritzlaff traveled to southern California to accelerate law enforcement efforts to stop foreigners from profiting off sending poisons and pollution to the United States. Under the Trump administration, EPA is dramatically expanding its imports investigative capacity and enforcement scope beyond the limited efforts of previous years, launching broader investigations that target illegal pesticide and chemical smuggling operations across multiple sectors to safeguard communities, agricultural integrity, and national security. This stepped-up enforcement has led to the blocking of more than 200,000 pounds of illegal pesticide imports at ports across America this year.
In a visit that reaffirmed EPA's commitment to protecting America while furthering cooperative federalism and cross-agency partnerships, AA Hall met with Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport Port Director Africa R. Bell and other officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The EPA and CBP officials discussed how the two entities can continue working together to keep Americans safe from illegal and dangerous imports. This includes efforts to advance further sharing of information critical to inspection, enforcement, and coordination to hold violators accountable. AA Hall also participated in imports inspection demonstrations, visited CBP's examination warehouse, received a briefing from leadership of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and toured the Port of Los Angeles by boat.
EPA enforcement serves as the front line for protecting American families from the growing threat of illegal pesticides, toxic chemicals, and other polluting products. It leverages the agency's scientific expertise and regulatory authority to combat criminal operations that endanger public health. Chinese manufacturers and criminal cartels have increasingly exploited regulatory and enforcement gaps to flood American markets with dangerous chemicals, not only poisoning communities but also undermining farmers and businesses who follow federal law. EPA's revitalized, comprehensive imports enforcement directly supports the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) strategy by prioritizing the removal of harmful toxins from American communities and food systems.
"At the Trump EPA, we're committed to securing clean air, land, and water for all Americans," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Jeffrey Hall. "That means vigorously enforcing our nation's laws and vigilantly policing the products that come across our borders. We're grateful to have partners at CBP and the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach who share our commitment to ensuring that imported products comply with the law and do not poison our communities."
"CBP has a mission to protect the United States from all threats. At times, those threats come in the form of illegal toxic pesticides and chemicals," said Port Director Africa R. Bell, Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport. "At the nation's largest seaport, CBP's longstanding partnership with the EPA is a critical component in CBP's ability to intercept toxins and prevent them from harming our communities and the environment."
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-accelerates-crackdown-toxic-and-poisonous-imports-concert-cbp-keeping-americans
2026 Community Investment Offerings
DALLAS, Texas, Dec. 23 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
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2026 Community Investment Offerings
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* Bulletin No: 2025-39
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (Bank) is pleased to announce its 2026 Community Investment offerings. In addition to the Affordable Housing Program, the Bank provides grant and loan programs to assist members with funding for veterans' assistance, small business financing, support for community organizations, assistance with heirs' property issues and funding of storm-resistant
... Show Full Article
DALLAS, Texas, Dec. 23 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
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2026 Community Investment Offerings
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* Bulletin No: 2025-39
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (Bank) is pleased to announce its 2026 Community Investment offerings. In addition to the Affordable Housing Program, the Bank provides grant and loan programs to assist members with funding for veterans' assistance, small business financing, support for community organizations, assistance with heirs' property issues and funding of storm-resistantroofing. See below for 2026 information on each program.
Affordable Housing Program (AHP) General Fund
The AHP General Fund is the Bank's competitive housing subsidy program. AHP grants support the purchase, construction or rehabilitation of owner-occupied and rental housing that serves income-qualified households.
* Up to $1.75 million per project available nationwide
* Apply from Tuesday, March 31, 2026, through Thursday, April 30, 2026, via the GrantConnect portal
The Bank will hold several AHP Workshops throughout the District beginning in February. See fhlb.com/events for dates and locations. Registration will open in January 2026. See fhlb.com/ahp and the Bank's Affordable Housing Program 2026 Implementation Plan for more information.
Community Investment Program (CIP)
The CIP provides advances to assist members in financing owner-occupied and rental housing by providing a favorably priced, match-funding source.
* Funds are noncompetitive and available year-round
* Uses include:
* Purchase or rehabilitation of owner-occupied and rental housing for income-qualified families
* Purchase of mortgage-backed securities representing a pool of loans that could be funded directly with CIP advances
* Investment in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits
* All member institutions eligible to obtain standard advances from the Bank may apply for CIP advances
Disaster Rebuilding Assistance (DRA)
DRA is designed to support households in the Bank's member communities that have been declared disaster areas eligible for individual assistance by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) since January 1, 2022. See fhlb.com/dra for more information.
* $3.5 million available
* Up to $15,000 per homeowner for repairs not covered by insurance or federal or state emergency assistance
* DRA will be provided in two offerings. The first offering will be made available Monday, February 2, 2026 and the second will open Monday, August 3, 2026
* Member cap: $262,500 per offering
* Assists homeowners at or below 80 percent of the area median income
* Each offering is administered on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are exhausted or November 15, 2026, whichever occurs first
* Any funds remaining at the end of the first offering will be added to the second offering
* New in 2026: DRA requests submitted for roof replacement must be for a FORTIFIED roof unless the structure cannot support a FORTIFIED roof
Disaster Relief Program (DRP)
The DRP helps finance any project that assists in recovery efforts in communities within the Bank's five-state District that have been declared disaster areas by FEMA. Individuals and business owners located within federally declared disaster areas may apply for funds through the Bank's member financial institutions. For more information, visit fhlb.com/disaster.
Economic Development Program (EDP)
The EDP provides members with favorably priced advances to support qualified economic and commercial development projects that benefit their surrounding communities. Hospitals, nursing homes, locally owned restaurants and retail shops are just a few examples of the types of community-centric businesses that have benefited from EDP advances.
* EDP advances may be used for new construction, renovation, small business financing, public works projects and historic preservation
* Funds are noncompetitive and available year-round
* All member institutions eligible to obtain standard advances from the Bank may apply for EDP advances
FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund - Homeownership
The FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund provides grants for a FORTIFIED roof to homeowners at or below 120 percent of the area median income. A FORTIFIED roof is designed to help mitigate damage from hurricanes, high winds, hail and severe thunderstorms.
Members may apply on behalf of multiple households in one request. The requested funds will be disbursed to members upon approval of the applications.
* $10 million available for homeowners
* Two offerings: Monday, January 26 and Wednesday, July 1, 2026
* Annual member cap: $1 million
* Annual intermediary cap: $1 million
* Up to $17,000 per homeowner
* Applications must include a minimum of five households and may include up to a maximum of 50 households
* The roof must be completed in accordance with FORTIFIED requirements certified by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)
* Available until the funds are exhausted or December 31, 2026, whichever occurs first
* Awarded on a first-come, first-served basis
* New in 2026 : Contractors must be FORTIFIED certified
* New in 2026 : IBHS Wildfire Prepared designation available for properties located in New Mexico only
FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund - Rental
The Bank will support resilient and affordable rental housing through the FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund Rental Program by providing grants to public housing authorities to upgrade existing roofs on affordable rental properties to FORTIFIED roofs.
* $10 million available
* Application window: Tuesday, September 1, 2026 through Wednesday, September 30, 2026
* $1 million available per project
* Projects must be located within the Bank's five-state District
Pathway Fund
The Pathway Fund (formerly Heirs' Property Program) provides grants to organizations with experience addressing heirs' property issues. Heirs' property refers to property inherited without a will or legal documentation of ownership. As property is passed down, the absence of a deed or will can become more complicated and can be a barrier to the ability to sell, collateralize, improve or otherwise transfer the property.
* $3 million available
* Member cap: $700,000
* Nonprofit, governmental entities or federally recognized tribes (collectively, "Organizations") located within the Bank's District may receive up to $150,000 to remediate titles
* Organizations may receive up to $25,000 to provide preventative services like property financial literacy education or preparation of wills
* Application window: Monday, August 3 through Friday, August 21, 2026
* Reviewed in the order received at the end of the application period
* New in 2026 : Organizations may receive up to $175,000 if providing both remediation and prevention services
Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP)
HELP provides grants for down payment and/or closing cost assistance for eligible first-time homebuyers.
* $17 million available
* Up to $25,000 per homeowner in Texas and New Mexico
* Up to $20,000 per homeowner in Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi and out-of-District
* Member cap of $150,000
* Funds will be made available in five rounds on January 2, April 6, May 4, June 15 and September 8, 2026
* Available until the funds are exhausted or December 31, 2026, whichever occurs first
* Submit applications via the GrantConnect portal
* Members must submit a one-time enrollment application and agreement
Housing Assistance for Veterans (HAVEN)
HAVEN is a housing program designed to provide grants to households of veterans or active service members who were disabled as a result of an injury during their active military service. The program supports necessary home modifications or offsets new construction costs. It can also be used for down payment assistance for qualified first-time homebuyers.
Grant recipients must have a household member who qualifies as disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs, a branch of the U.S. military, the federal government or another acceptable source. Alternatively, the funds can be awarded to Gold Star Families.
* $1 million available
* HAVEN is being provided in two offerings: Thursday, January 15 and Wednesday, July 1, 2026
* Funds may be used for home modification, rehabilitation, new construction or down payment assistance for qualified first-time homebuyers
* Available until the funds are exhausted or December 31, 2026, whichever occurs first
Native American Housing Opportunities (NAHO) Fund
The NAHO Fund provides grants from $50,000 to $200,000 to support housing initiatives that federally recognized Native American tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entitiesorganizations working at the local levelidentify as critical to meeting tribal housing needs.
* $1.5 million available
* Maximum grant size of $200,000
* Application window opens Friday, May 1, 2026 and will remain open until the funds are exhausted or Friday, May 29, 2026, whichever occurs first
Partnership Grant Program (PGP)
The PGP provides funding for the operational needs of community-based organizations (CBOs), which are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations involved in affordable housing, local community development and small business technical assistance within the Bank's District. PGP applications will be accepted from Wednesday, April 1 through Friday, April 24, 2026.
* $1.5 million available
* The Bank will match member contributions of $500-$5,000 to eligible CBOs at a 5:1 ratio
* Up to $25,000 available per application
* To qualify, the CBO's annual revenue must be equal to or less than $1 million
* Grant recipients will be selected via a lottery system until the funds are exhausted
Small Business Boost (SBB)
SBB provides recoverable assistance to finance the start up or expansion of qualified small businesses. SBB funds are intended to help participating members provide financing for qualified small businesses by filling the gap between what the member can finance, and the loan request made by an eligible small business. SBB is provided to members as a secondary, unsecured loan in conjunction with a loan made by the member to the small business. See fhlb.com/sbb for more information.
* Minimum $4 million available
* The jobs requirement is one job for every $62,500 in SBB funds
* Maximum loan amount is the lesser of $125,000 or 50 percent of the member's loan amount
* No payments are due on the SBB loan in the first year
* Principal amortization begins in year two at which time the member may charge up to 3 percent interest on the SBB loan
* The Bank charges 3 percent interest beginning in the third year of the loan
* Examples of uses: Fill a financing gap due to lack of equity, a shortfall in collateral or initial cash flow challenges
* Available until December 4, 2026
Special Needs Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides grants for housing rehabilitation to meet the needs of households with a resident that has special needs. See fhlb.com/snap and the Bank's Implementation Plan for more information.
* $1.8 million available
* $10,000 per household
* Member cap of $20,000 per offering
* Members must submit a one-time enrollment application and agreement
* SNAP-assisted properties must be located within the Bank's District
* Submit applications via the GrantConnect portal
* Two funding windows:
* 8:00 a.m. CT, Wednesday, March 4, 2026 through 5:00 p.m. CT, Thursday, March 5, 2026
* 8:00 a.m. CT, Wednesday, July 15, 2026 through 5:00 p.m. CT, Thursday, July 16, 2026
State Housing Finance Agency (HFA) Education Grant Program
Provides grants to support the growth of homeownership education and financial counseling programs through the State HFAs located in the Bank's District.
* Applications are submitted by State HFAs from Monday, March 2, through Friday, March 20, 2026
* $600,000 in State HFA Education Grants are available for 2026
How to Apply
Detailed information on each of these programs, including applications and enrollment forms, guidelines and other information may be found at fhlb.com/community.
Please check fhlb.com periodically for program announcements. For questions regarding AHP, DRA, FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund, HAVEN, HELP, NAHO Fund, Pathway Fund, PGP, SNAP or the State HFA Education Grant Program, please contact Community Investment at 800.362.2944. For questions regarding SBB, CIP, EDP or DRP, please contact Member Services at 844.345.2265.
I hope you will use our affordable housing and economic development programs in 2026.
Sincerely,
Sanjay K. Bhasin
President and Chief Executive Officer
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Original text here: https://www.fhlb.com/library/bulletins/2025/2026-community-investment-offerings
