Grants and Funding Opportunities
EPA Funding Opportunity: Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development – Deadline Oct 5
NOFO Questions Due: September 14, 2026
Application Deadline: October 05, 2026
Docket: EPA-OW-OWM-26-03
EPA is accepting applications for approximately $10.8 million through the Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Program to strengthen career pathways and expand workforce opportunities in the drinking water and wastewater utility sectors. EPA anticipates making up to 15 awards.
Funding is available across four project areas:
- Targeted internship, apprenticeship, and pre-apprenticeship programs for skilled water utility trades
- Education programs for elementary, secondary, and higher education students
- Regional industry and workforce development collaborations
- Education and training programs for decentralized water workers serving communities that rely on private wells or septic systems
Funding Available: Up to $10.8 million
Awards: $1 million–$7.8 million for Project Area 1; $250,000–$1 million for Project Areas 2–4
Expected Awards: Up to 15
Project Period: Three years
Cost Share: None required
Eligible Applicants: Institutions of higher education; public works departments and agencies; nonprofit organizations; nonprofit professional or service organizations; nonprofit labor organizations; nonprofit community colleges; and other nonprofit training and educational institutions.
Learn More — EPA Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Program
Alaska DEC Opens Applications for 2027 Brownfield Assessment & Cleanup Services – Application deadline Nov 13
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Brownfields Program has opened the application period for the 2027 DEC Brownfield Assessment and Cleanup (DBAC) Services.
The DBAC program provides assessment and cleanup services to help eligible communities address contaminated or potentially contaminated properties, supporting redevelopment while protecting public health and the environment.
Applications may be submitted online through JotForm or by emailing a completed PDF application.
For application materials, program information, and eligibility requirements, visit:
🔗 https://dec.alaska.gov/spar/csp/brownfields/resources/assessment-cleanup/
Questions may be directed to the DEC Brownfields Program at:
This funding opportunity may be particularly valuable for Alaska Tribal governments, Tribal organizations, municipalities, and communities seeking assistance with brownfield assessment and cleanup projects.
ALPAR Recycling Collection Event Mini-Grants (Alaska) – Apply by March 31, June 30 Sept. 30, Dec. 31
If you’re organizing a collection event for hard-to-recycle items, Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Recycling (ALPAR) mini-grants may be able to help. Applications are due at the end of each quarter (3/31, 6/30, 9/30, 12/31).
Need bags?
- ALPAR now has an online ordering form. There is no deadline, but bags take 2-4 weeks to ship, so it’s best to get your orders in early.
If you have questions, the best way to get quick answers to questions is via text: 907-215-4998.
Tribal Funding Registry
The Tribal Funding Registry is a free, searchable grants database designed for Tribes and Native-led nonprofit organizations. The registry is hosted by the Hozhonigo Institute, a Native American-led nonprofit.
Tackling Emerging Contaminants: EPA Technical Assistance – No Deadline
EPA has launched the Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative, a technical assistance program focused on reducing exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in small or disadvantaged communities. This assistance will help eligible public drinking-water systems evaluate emerging contaminant issues, conduct initial water quality testing, and identify next steps in 200 small or disadvantaged communities over the next three years. EPA will also share best practices and amplify successes through case studies, fact sheets, webinars, and other resources. There is no deadline to apply.
USDA Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program
USDA Rural Development funds grants for water and waste disposal facilities and services on federally-recognized tribal lands, colonias and rural areas that face significant health risks due to a lack of access to adequate, affordable water or waste disposal.
Application closes when all funding is awarded.
Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program | Rural Development (usda.gov)
Western IPM Center Planning Documents Grants – Applications accepted on a rolling basis
Funding: Up to $15,000 per award, available 2022-2026
Details: These grants can be used to produce Pest Management Strategic Plans, Crop Profiles or other IPM-related plans. Proposals will be considered on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
Deadline: None
Tribal Nonpoint Source Program | US EPA
www.epa.gov
Nonpoint Source Water pollution Program for Tribes through Section 319 (h) of the Clean Water Act
Updated Definition of Waters of the United States | US EPA
www.epa.gov
Webpage with information on the proposed rule Updated Definition of "Waters of the United States"
Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act Waivers Open for Public Comment | US EPA
www.epa.gov
Information about the Build America, Buy America Act Waivers and Waiver Process