The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for grants through two programs to help rural communities develop locally-based solutions and access financial resources to support water and waste infrastructure improvements.
Grants awarded through the Solid Waste Management Program may be used to provide technical assistance or training to improve the planning and management of solid waste systems in order to reduce pollution of water resources. Most state and local government entities, nonprofits, federally-recognized Tribes, and academic institutions are eligible to apply for funding to assist rural communities with a population of 10,000 of less.
Through the Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training Grant Program, qualified, private nonprofits can apply for grants to support the delivery of technical assistance and training to help rural communities with a population of 10,000 or less identify and evaluate solutions to water problems, improve the operation and maintenance of water or waste disposal facilities, and prepare applications for Rural Development funding.
Funding will be awarded in the fall of 2021. The grants will be available for use between October 1, 2021, and September 30, 2022.
These grants are awarded on a competitive basis. Applications for both programs are due by 8:59 p.m. PST on December 31, 2020. Applications will not be accepted by email or fax. Applications may be submitted electronically through grants.gov. In Oregon, paper applications should be submitted to the Rural Development state office:
USDA Rural Development
ATTN: Community Programs
1220 SW 3rd Avenue
Suite 1801
Portland, OR 97204
For questions, or to discuss a potential application, contact Ella Nichols, Community Programs Specialist, (503) 414-3354.