Explore this week’s featured grants and upcoming deadlines for municipalities and public agencies.

Connecticut Opportunities

Up to $15 Million Available for CT Municipalities: VW Diesel Emissions Mitigation Program – Round 4

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) is excited to announce the opening of the VW Diesel Emissions Mitigation Program – Round 4. This grant program provides funding of up to $15 million for projects aimed at reducing diesel emissions across the state, supporting both government and non-government entities.

Communities have utilized this crucial funding for:

– School bus electrification

– Public transit upgrades

– Replacement of heavy-duty trucks

– Electrification of loaders and equipment

– Installation of charging stations

– Repowering marine vessels to reduce emissions near waterfronts

Proposal Deadline: June 11, 2026 @ 5:00 PM EST

Eligibility: Open to government and non-government entities

Matching funds required for all projects. This reimbursement program prioritizes projects that have not started prior to the submission of an application. In addition, all proposed projects must include matching funds, ensuring community investment in emission reduction initiatives.

Funding will be awarded through an open and competitive process, enhancing transparency and fairness.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to improve air quality and reduce emissions in your municipality!

For more information: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/deep/air/mobile/vw/2026-vw-settlement—round-4-webinar.pdf?rev=cef4b248fb18437ba6d848e94eb367df&hash=C956B65193C2E8CD1683C9F91FB742A4

2026 Public Notice Volkswagen Settlement

Instructions and Application Form (UPDATED 4/22/2026)  

Local Bridge Program (CTDOT) – April–May 2026 Application Window

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Local Bridge Program provides state funding to municipalities for the replacement, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of local bridges.

This program supports critical infrastructure improvements, including safety upgrades and resiliency enhancements. Municipalities are encouraged to prepare projects in advance of the annual application cycle.

The application window is open April 1 through May 31, 2026.
Learn more: https://portal.ct.gov/dot/programs/local-bridge?language=en_US

Now Accepting Applications: Clean Water Fund – Financial Assistance for Municipal Wastewater Projects (Connecticut)

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) provides financial assistance to municipalities through the Clean Water Fund (CWF) to support wastewater infrastructure projects that improve water quality and protect public health.

Funding is available as a combination of grants and low-interest loans for projects such as wastewater treatment plant upgrades, sewer system improvements, combined sewer overflow mitigation, and nutrient reduction efforts impacting Long Island Sound.

Eligible applicants include municipalities undertaking wastewater and water pollution control projects. Funding is awarded based on a priority ranking system and project inclusion on the state’s Clean Water Fund Priority List.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with project planning and submissions coordinated through DEEP. Municipalities should allow at least 90 days for review of submitted materials.

Learn more and apply: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Municipal-Wastewater/Financial-Assistance-for-Municipal-Wastewater-Projects

Federal Opportunities

Warning Direct from Grants.gov    

“There has been a lapse in appropriated federal funds as of October 1, 2025. Grants.gov will still be available, but service may be delayed with reduced Federal support staff presence. For those programs affected by the funding lapse, the Grants.gov system will accept and store applications until such time as the responsible awarding agency has the authority and funding to return to normal business operations.” 

Fund Safer Roads Now: SS4A Grants Deliver Millions for Local Safety Projects

The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program continues to be a major federal funding opportunity for municipalities focused on improving roadway safety. Backed by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the program supports efforts to reduce fatalities and serious injuries through planning and targeted infrastructure projects.

For FY2026, nearly $1 billion is available, including funding for both Planning & Demonstration Grants and Implementation Grants. Awards typically range from $100K–$5M for planning and $2.5M+ for implementation.

Eligible applicants include cities, towns, counties, MPOs, Tribal governments, and regional partnerships. Implementation applicants must have an adopted Comprehensive Safety Action Plan in place.

Deadline: May 26, 2026 (5:00 PM EDT)
Match Requirement: 20% local share

For DPW leaders and traffic engineers facing safety challenges or constrained capital budgets, SS4A offers a clear path to fund data-driven, life-saving improvements.

For more information: https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A

Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP): Funding Opportunity for Municipalities Supporting Military Readiness

Municipalities, state governments, and eligible utility providers now have an opportunity to secure federal funding through the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) — a competitive grant initiative focused on strengthening community infrastructure that directly supports U.S. military installations and defense missions.

Administered by the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC), the DCIP program helps communities invest in critical infrastructure that improves the readiness, resilience, and operational effectiveness of nearby military installations while also enhancing quality of life for service members and their families.

Since its launch, the program has demonstrated substantial national impact. Between Fiscal Years 2020 and 2025, DCIP awarded $468 million in federal funding to 88 projects nationwide.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• State governments
• Local governments and municipalities
• Not-for-profit, member-owned utility providers

The program encourages collaboration among public agencies, private partners, and nonprofit utilities to deliver infrastructure solutions that strengthen defense communities.

Eligible Projects

DCIP supports a broad range of infrastructure projects that are complete and usable upon completion, including:

• Transportation improvements
• Schools and educational facilities
• Hospitals and healthcare infrastructure
• Police, fire, and emergency response facilities
• Water and wastewater systems
• Telecommunications infrastructure
• Electric, gas, and other utility projects
• Other community support facilities tied to defense mission needs

Projects must either:

• Be located off a military installation, or
• Be located on military property subject to a real estate agreement such as a lease or easement.

Why This Matters

As military installations continue to rely on surrounding communities for essential services and infrastructure, programs like DCIP help ensure those communities are equipped to meet evolving defense and operational needs. The grants also provide municipalities with an opportunity to modernize aging infrastructure, improve public services, and stimulate local economic growth.

Communities located near military installations are strongly encouraged to assess infrastructure gaps and explore partnerships that can strengthen future grant applications.

Application Deadline: June 25, 2026 5 PM.

Interested municipalities and eligible organizations should begin preparing project proposals and partnership documentation as early as possible.

For more information: https://oldcc.gov/our-programs/defense-community-infrastructure-program

Florida Opportunities

$150 M Available Through The Resilient Florida Program for Communities Focused on Integrated Coastal Flood Mitigation

The Resilient Florida Program includes a selection of grants that are available to counties, municipalities, special districts with specific responsibilities and regional resilience entities. To effectively address the impacts of flooding and sea level rise that the state faces, eligible applicants may receive funding assistance to analyze and plan for vulnerabilities, as well as implement projects for adaptation and mitigation.

Planning Projects and Resilience Plans: Applications accepted July 1 – Sept. 1, 2026.

Communities that have yet to perform a vulnerability assessment pursuant to statutory requirements will be prioritized for funding.

Implementation projects to be included in the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan: Applications accepted July 1 – Sept. 1, 2026.

Local governments are eligible to apply for implementation project funding after conducting a vulnerability assessment that demonstrates a risk of flooding or risks due to sea level rise to a critical asset or the project area. The Comprehensive Statewide Flood Vulnerability and Sea Level Rise Assessment may also be used to demonstrate this risk.

Regional resilience entities: Applications accepted June 20 – July 30, 2026

For more information: https://floridadep.gov/rcp/resilient-florida-program/content/resilient-florida-grants

Maine Opportunities

Community Action Grants – Round 7 Now Open

The Community Action Grants support municipalities in advancing local climate initiatives. Funding is available for two main areas: (1) projects aligned with the Community Resilience Partnership’s List of Community Actions—covering approved climate mitigation and adaptation strategies tied to Maine Won’t Wait—and (2) other locally proposed efforts that build capacity, support planning, or implement climate and energy priorities.

The program is designed to be flexible, allowing municipalities to select actions that fit their needs while also encouraging a baseline level of climate progress across communities. It’s especially useful for towns at any stage—from early planning to project implementation.

Eligibility: Participation in the Community Resilience Partnership is a requirement to apply for the Community Action Grant.  Enrollment and grant applications will be accepted simultaneously. Communities must reenroll every 2 years to remain eligible for grants and technical assistance.

Application Deadline: June 5, 2026, 5 P.M. EST

https://www.maine.gov/future/climate/community-resilience-partnership/grants

Future Funding Opportunity to Watch – Maine CDBG Economic Development Program (EDP)

The Maine Office of Community Development will begin accepting Letters of Intent for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Economic Development Program (EDP) starting July 3, 2026 (the first Friday of the month).

This program provides gap funding to municipalities applying on behalf of an identified local business to support the creation or retention of jobs for low- and moderate-income residents. Awards of up to $100,000 may be used for eligible activities such as working capital and capital equipment purchases.

The EDP uses a two-stage application process, beginning with a required Letter of Intent. Following reviews for eligibility and completeness, selected communities may be invited to submit a full application.

Communities considering economic development projects are encouraged to begin planning early to identify eligible businesses, confirm project readiness, and prepare to meet program requirements when the application window opens.

Learn more:
https://www.maine.gov/decd/community-development/cdbg-program/grant-categories/economic-development-program

Massachusetts Opportunities

Unlock Funding for Accessibility Improvements: Grants Up to $250K Available for Municipal Projects

Communities across Massachusetts have a new opportunity to improve accessibility and strengthen public spaces through the ADA Improvement Grant Program. Municipalities, school districts, and housing authorities can apply for planning and project grants of up to $250,000 to support Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements on publicly owned properties.

This funding can help communities remove barriers and create safer, more inclusive spaces for residents and visitors alike. Eligible projects may include upgrades to:

• Town and city halls
• Public libraries
• Parks and playgrounds
• Sidewalks and streetscapes
• School facilities
• Housing authority properties

Both planning initiatives and shovel-ready construction projects are encouraged to apply.

Why Municipalities Should Apply

Accessibility improvements not only ensure ADA compliance — they also improve quality of life, increase community participation, and demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Applicants who include matching funds in their proposal may strengthen their competitiveness during the review process.

Important Deadline

Applications must be submitted by June 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM

Municipal leaders considering accessibility upgrades should begin identifying priority projects now and preparing supporting materials ahead of the deadline.

For many communities, this grant represents a valuable opportunity to advance long-needed improvements while leveraging state funding support.

For more information: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/municipal-ada-improvement-grant-program

Massachusetts Municipal & Tribal Technical Assistance Grant Program: A New Resource for Local Communities

Massachusetts municipalities now have a valuable new tool to help advance infrastructure, climate, housing, and economic development projects through the Federal Funds & Infrastructure Office Municipal & Tribal Technical Assistance (MTTA) Grant Program.

Administered by the state’s Federal Funds & Infrastructure Office (FFIO), the program was created to help cities, towns, tribal governments, and eligible regional organizations strengthen their capacity to pursue and manage federal funding opportunities.

The MTTA program provides funding for technical assistance services that many municipalities may struggle to fund internally, including:

• Grant writing support
• Planning and feasibility studies
• Project scoping and financial analysis
• Demonstration and pilot activities
• Post-award grant management
• Federal compliance assistance, including Direct Pay support

Importantly, the program is designed to support projects that are either actively seeking federal funding or have already received federal dollars. Priority is given to rural communities, Gateway Cities, and municipalities facing capacity or financial constraints.

Since launching, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has already awarded millions of dollars through the program to communities across Massachusetts, helping local governments advance transportation, climate resilience, housing, and public infrastructure initiatives.

For municipalities with ambitious projects but limited staffing or technical resources, the MTTA program represents a significant opportunity to build local capacity and compete more effectively for federal investment.

Apply by June 30, 2026.

Municipal leaders interested in learning more or applying can visit the official Massachusetts program page here: Mass.gov MTTA Program Information

Up to $425K Available Through the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Grant Program

The Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Grant offers up to $425,000 to municipalities for acquiring, developing, or renovating parkland. Applications are due by July 9, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., with a 52–70% reimbursement rate. Projects must have a current Open Space and Recreation Plan.

Eligibility: Any town with a population of 35,000 or more year-round residents, or any city regardless of size, that has an authorized park /recreation commission is eligible to participate in the program. Communities that do not meet the population criteria listed above may still qualify under the “small town,” “regional,” or “statewide” project provisions of the program.

For more information: https://www.mass.gov/doc/parkland-acquisitions-and-renovations-for-communities-parc-grant-program-bid-fy-27/download

Secure Up to $425K for Local Land Conservation with MA’s LAND Grant

The Massachusetts Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity (LAND) Grant Program is now accepting applications from municipal conservation and agricultural commissions with an up-to-date Open Space and Recreation Plan.

This program supports the protection of valuable natural resources by funding the purchase of land for conservation and passive recreation, as well as Conservation Restrictions.

Municipalities can receive up to $425,000 per project, with reimbursement rates ranging from 52% to 70%.

Applications are due by Thursday, July 9, 2026.

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/local-acquisitions-for-natural-diversity-land-grant-program#:~:text=The%20grants%20reimburse%20cities%20and,Maximum%20grant%20award%20amount%3A%20%24425%2C000

Now Accepting Applications: FY2027 Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Grant – Deadline December 30, 2026

The Massachusetts State 911 Department is now accepting applications for the FY2027 Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Grant Program. This program provides funding to eligible Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to support compliance with Emergency Medical Dispatch certification requirements (560 CMR 5.0).

Eligible applicants include primary, regional, and secondary PSAPs, as well as Regional Emergency Communication Centers (RECCs). Funding is provided based on demonstrated need to meet certification standards. The grant period runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and costs incurred prior to contract execution are not eligible for reimbursement.

Applications are due December 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Learn more and apply: https://www.mass.gov/doc/fy2027-emergency-medical-dispatch-grant-application/download

New Hampshire Opportunities

Rural Business Development Grants Open New Doors for NH & VT Communities

Municipal leaders across Vermont and New Hampshire have an opportunity to bring new economic development projects to life through the USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program.

Designed to support rural economic growth and job creation, the program provides flexible funding for projects that strengthen local businesses, expand community services, and improve long-term economic resilience.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Municipal and other public/government entities
• Federally recognized Indian Tribes
• Nonprofit organizations that primarily serve rural communities

What Can the Funding Support?

RBDG funding is divided into two categories:

• Business Opportunity Grants – supporting planning, technical assistance, leadership training, and economic development strategies
• Business Enterprise Grants – helping finance projects that assist small and emerging businesses in rural areas

Funding can support a wide range of community and business initiatives that create jobs and stimulate local economies.

Key Advantages for Rural Communities

• No maximum grant amount
• No local match requirement
• Smaller funding requests receive higher priority, making the program especially accessible for smaller municipalities and rural organizations

Why It Matters for NH & VT

Many communities across New Hampshire and Vermont are working to revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, improve workforce opportunities, and attract investment. The RBDG program offers a practical funding source for municipalities seeking to advance those goals without requiring significant local financial contributions.

Communities considering infrastructure improvements, business support initiatives, tourism development, workforce training, or entrepreneurial programs should explore whether their projects align with RBDG priorities.

With rural economic vitality remaining a key focus across Northern New England, this grant program could help communities turn local ideas into measurable economic impact.

Note: Rural Business Development Grants has two different closing dates: 1) June 15, 2026, only applies to Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) applications and 2) June 30, 2026, applies to the remainder of the applicants.

Learn more: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-business-development-grants-8

Protect Today, Prepare for Tomorrow: PREPA Grants Now Open for Municipalities

The Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership (PREP) is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Piscataqua Region Environmental Planning Assessment (PREPA) Grant Program. Open to all 52 municipalities within the Piscataqua Region Watershed in Maine and New Hampshire, these grants help communities strengthen water quality protection, conserve natural resources, and prepare for recurring extreme weather and climate impacts. Municipal leaders are encouraged to take advantage of this funding opportunity to support local resilience and long-term environmental planning.

Application Deadline: June 16, 2026 by 4:00 PM.

For more information: https://www.nhcaw.org/spring-2026-funding-opportunities/

NH Coastal Communities Invited to Apply for Resilience Grant Funding

New Hampshire coastal municipalities and partner organizations still have time to apply for the 2026 Coastal Resilience Grant (CRG) program through the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Coastal Program.

Approximately $100,000 in funding is available for projects that strengthen community and habitat resilience to coastal flooding and climate impacts. Grants will support planning, design, and capacity-building efforts in New Hampshire’s coastal communities.

Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, quasi-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and state agencies. Individual projects may request between $15,000 and $40,000 in funding.

Projects must take place in one or more of New Hampshire Coastal Zone communities, including Portsmouth, Dover, Durham, Exeter, Hampton, Rye, Seabrook, Stratham, and surrounding coastal towns.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. EDT on Friday, June 5, 2026.

The CRG program, now in its eighth funding round, has supported 30 resilience projects statewide since 2014, investing more than $1.2 million in federal grant funding to help communities prepare for future climate challenges.

For more information: https://www.des.nh.gov/news-and-media/requesting-applications-2026-new-hampshire-coastal-resilience-grant-projects

Secure Your Community’s Water Future—Up to $500,000 Available Through the Source Water Protection Grant

New Hampshire municipalities have a timely opportunity to protect critical drinking water sources with state grant funding. This program supports the permanent conservation of high-priority water supply lands, helping communities safeguard water quality, reduce long-term treatment costs, and plan for future demand.

Why apply:

• Up to $500,000 per project (higher with approval)
• Protect current or future drinking water sources
• Strengthen resilience while leveraging state funding

Eligible applicants:

Municipalities, state agencies, public water systems, land trusts, and conservation-focused nonprofits. Partnerships are encouraged.

Key requirements:

• Projects must permanently protect priority water supply lands
• Land must remain undeveloped (or be restored to that condition)
• Future use is limited to drinking water protection, agriculture, forestry, outdoor recreation, or wildlife habitat
• 50% matching funds required

Deadline:

Pre-applications must be submitted by May 28^th to be considered for funding. Each pre-application will be reviewed for completeness, and if found eligible will be invited to submit a full funding application. Funding applications are due August 27, 2026.

Communities with priority water resource areas or future supply needs should move quickly—this funding can make long-term protection financially achievable.

https://www.dwgtf.des.nh.gov/funding-programs/source-water-protection-grant-program

New Mexico Opportunities

Get Inspired and Apply for the Creative Industries Public Development Grant

The New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Creative Industries Division (CID) is inviting local governments, Tribal Nations, and Pueblos to submit concepts for arts and cultural economy infrastructure for public development projects. This pre-application phase helps communities refine proposals, build partnerships, and establish budgets for a competitive grant funding round expected in Fall 2026.

Creative Industries Division Grants are awarded to legal entities, not individuals. Legal entities include state, counties, municipalities or other political subdivisions of the state, Indian nations, tribes or pueblos, and for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

Eligible Projects should align with:

• Strengthening local creative industries
• Support small creative businesses and entrepreneurs
• Build or improve public infrastructure connected to creative industries
• Support workforce development initiatives
• Expand economic opportunity through creative industries in rural and underserved communities

Proposed timeline (1–2 years)

Preliminary Budget Projection (Total project cost, requested funding amount – maximum funding ceiling $150,000.00 not including estimated matching financial support or in-kind support)

For more information: https://www.edd.newmexico.gov/grants/cid-grants/

Funding Opportunity – New Mexico Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) Program

The New Mexico Construction Programs Bureau administers the Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) Program, which provides 100% grant funding to support eligible wastewater and sewer infrastructure projects under the framework of Clean Water Act Section 603(c), similar to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). Eligible applicants include municipalities and municipal entities, and funding is limited.

OSG allocations are typically released once per federal fiscal year. To be considered for OSG funding, applicants must complete the FY2026 Clean Water State Revolving Fund application and indicate Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) as the intended funding source. The State maintains a list of eligible applicants for OSG funding based on submitted CWSRF applications.

Municipalities with sewer and wastewater system improvement needs are encouraged to prepare applications and project materials early in anticipation of the next funding cycle.

Learn more and apply:
https://www.env.nm.gov/construction-programs/fy2026-clean-water-state-revolving-fund-application/

Rhode Island Opportunities

Unlocking $5M for Eligible Rhode Island Communities –  Housing, Jobs, and Neighborhood Revitalization

Rhode Island municipal leaders have a timely opportunity to secure federal funding to advance critical housing, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization priorities. Housing Rehabilitation applications for PY24 are open as of 5/8/25 distributing approximately $4–$5 million annually— local governments can fund high-impact, community-driven projects that directly benefit low- and moderate-income residents.

The deadline for this opportunity is September 30, 2026, with awards announced as early as late summer.  Funding is tied to clearly defined activities, and municipalities that act early, align internally, and submit competitive applications are best positioned to capture these limited resources.

A priority is given to housing production/rehabilitation, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization in low- and moderate-income areas. All projects must meet HUD national objectives, primarily benefiting LMI residents.

Municipalities are the required applicants and fiscal agents, but may partner with housing authorities, nonprofits, and developers to implement projects. Coordination across mayoral offices, economic development, and housing functions is critical to align applications with local priorities and maximize competitiveness.

https://housing.ri.gov/programs/community-development-block-grants

Turn Potential into Progress: Rhode Island’s Site Readiness Program

Every community has that site—the underused parcel, the stalled development, the property with real potential but no clear path forward. Rhode Island’s Site Readiness Program is designed to change that.

Built for municipalities ready to unlock economic growth, this program provides funding to tackle the upfront work that often holds projects back; site preparation, infrastructure improvements, demolition, engineering, and even zoning updates. In short, it helps turn “someday” projects into shovel-ready opportunities.

The program is flexible, practical, and aligned with what municipalities actually need to move projects forward. Whether you’re revitalizing a downtown parcel or preparing land for new housing, this funding helps bridge the gap between vision and execution.

Deadline: May 29, 2026 at 5:00 PM.

Learn more: https://commerceri.com/site-readiness/

Progress doesn’t start with construction—it starts with preparation. This program helps you get there.

Vermont Opportunities

Rural Business Development Grants Open New Doors for NH & VT Communities

Municipal leaders across Vermont and New Hampshire have an opportunity to bring new economic development projects to life through the USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program.

Designed to support rural economic growth and job creation, the program provides flexible funding for projects that strengthen local businesses, expand community services, and improve long-term economic resilience.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Municipal and other public/government entities
• Federally recognized Indian Tribes
• Nonprofit organizations that primarily serve rural communities

What Can the Funding Support?

RBDG funding is divided into two categories:

• Business Opportunity Grants – supporting planning, technical assistance, leadership training, and economic development strategies
• Business Enterprise Grants – helping finance projects that assist small and emerging businesses in rural areas

Funding can support a wide range of community and business initiatives that create jobs and stimulate local economies.

Key Advantages for Rural Communities

• No maximum grant amount
• No local match requirement
• Smaller funding requests receive higher priority, making the program especially accessible for smaller municipalities and rural organizations

Why It Matters for NH & VT

Many communities across New Hampshire and Vermont are working to revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, improve workforce opportunities, and attract investment. The RBDG program offers a practical funding source for municipalities seeking to advance those goals without requiring significant local financial contributions.

Communities considering infrastructure improvements, business support initiatives, tourism development, workforce training, or entrepreneurial programs should explore whether their projects align with RBDG priorities.

With rural economic vitality remaining a key focus across Northern New England, this grant program could help communities turn local ideas into measurable economic impact.

Note: Rural Business Development Grants has two different closing dates: 1) June 15, 2026, only applies to Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) applications and 2) June 30, 2026, applies to the remainder of the applicants.

Learn more: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-business-development-grants-8

Plan Smarter, Grow Stronger: VT’s Municipal Planning Grant Announcement Coming in July

The Vermont Municipal Planning Grant (MPG) Program provides funding to municipalities to support local planning, revitalization, and community development initiatives aligned with statewide goals. Administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development, the program funds projects such as municipal plan updates, zoning and bylaw revisions, capital improvement planning, and resilience or housing-related studies.

Awards typically range from a few thousand dollars up to about $30,000 (or higher for multi-town partnerships), with a modest local match required.

Projects must align with the municipal plan and regional priorities, helping communities prepare for growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life.

https://accd.vermont.gov/community-development/funding-incentives/municipal-planning-grant

Now Available – Vermont Brownfields Revitalization Fund (State Program)

The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development is accepting applications for the Brownfields Revitalization Fund (BRF) – State Program, which provides funding to support the cleanup and productive reuse of contaminated or underutilized properties. This state-funded program advances economic development, housing, and community revitalization by supporting the implementation of approved Corrective Action Plans (CAPs).

Priority is given to projects that demonstrate readiness, clear community benefit, and the potential for regional or statewide impact. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, and for-profit entities with sites in Vermont. Applicants must generally be able to provide a 10% match, enroll on the site in the BRELLA program, and have a CAP approved or pending approval.

This opportunity is currently open with no published deadline, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Learn more and apply:
https://accd.vermont.gov/economic-development/programs/brownfields/state

Vermont Municipalities: Don’t Miss This Clean Vessel Act Funding Opportunity

If your community manages a public marina, boat launch, or waterfront facility, there’s a strong (and often underused) funding source you should have on your radar: the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) grant program.

The CVA is a federally funded program, administered in Vermont by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, that helps municipalities and marina operators build and maintain infrastructure that keeps boat waste out of lakes and rivers.

What can you fund?

Eligible projects typically include:

• Pumpout stations and dump stations
• Pumpout boats
• Waste transport and storage systems
• Maintenance or upgrades to existing facilities

How much funding is available?

• Tier 1 projects: up to $100,000
• Tier 2 projects: up to $1 million
• Federal share: typically 75% (25% local match required)

Who can apply?

Vermont municipalities are eligible applicants, along with public and private marinas and related entities.

Key deadline (don’t rely on outdated websites)

• Target deadline: August 15 each year
• Applications are considered “rolling,” but this is the cutoff for inclusion in the state’s annual federal submission.

• Important: The state bundles municipal projects into its federal application, which is typically submitted later in the year.
  Translation: If you wait until August, you may already be behind.

A Common Challenge

The Clean Vessel Act program involves a multi-step state and federal review process, where project readiness and alignment play a critical role in funding decisions.

Municipalities new to the program often find that navigating these requirements can be more complex than expected.

https://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/get-involved/apply-for-a-grant/clean-vessel-act-grant

Capital Strategic Solutions works with municipalities to guide projects through this process and strengthen funding outcomes. Let us assist with your grant writing, research, and compliance needs.

For assistance with your application, reach out to Capital Strategic Solutions. We are experts in Grant Management, expertly handling every stage of the grant lifecycle—from identifying lucrative funding opportunities and securing awards to ensuring compliance and managing project budgets. Our deep understanding of the public sector enables us to effectively support clients in delivering sustainable and impactful community projects. Partner with us to achieve your goals with certainty and success. Call us at (508) 690-0046 or email info@capital-strategic-solutions.com to get started.

About Capital Strategic Solutions (CSS)

CSS is a certified woman-owned, disadvantaged business enterprise of municipal experts delivering creative, cost-effective solutions that maximize success and minimize risk. With deep local government expertise, we craft tailored strategies to meet each community’s unique needs.

Our capabilities span public administration, municipal finance, human resources, policy development, emergency management, public safety, public works, water operations, interim municipal services, public relations, community engagement, project management, grant writing, and onsite support. We partner with clients to define clear goals, overcome challenges, and implement human-centered plans that drive performance and transform communities.

Let Capital Strategic Solutions assist with your grant writing, research, and compliance needs.