Recycling Mini-Grant Program - Round I

The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority (CCRRA) Recycling Mini-Grant Program offers reimbursement grant funds for projects in Centre County, PA, that enhance recycling education and material collection. Funding availability is determined by the prior year’s recycling commodity market performance. Eligible applicants include Centre County municipalities, businesses, recycling collection haulers, schools, healthcare institutions, and non-profits, all of which must comply with local solid waste ordinances. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $15,000, requiring a minimum 50% cash match from recipients. Grants are disbursed based on documented expenses, with the application deadline on October 4, 2024, and awards announced on October 28, 2024. Funded projects must be completed within one year, with final reimbursement requests due by December 1, 2025.

1. Align with Grant Priorities Ensure your project closely aligns with the CCRRA's goals, such as increasing recycling collection, reducing contamination, and enhancing recycling education and outreach. Emphasize how your project will contribute to these priorities. 2. Clear and Detailed Proposal Clearly define your project concept, objectives, and expected outcomes. Make sure your proposal is well-organized and all activities are realistically achievable within the project timeline. 3. Measurable Outcomes Specify measurable outcomes, such as the amount of recycled materials expected to be collected or the number of people to be educated. This will demonstrate the impact of your project. 4. Demonstrate Organizational Capacity Highlight the experience and qualifications of your team. Show that your organization has the skills and resources needed to successfully implement the project. 5. Financial Viability Provide a clear and realistic budget. Ensure that you have secured the required 50% cash match and document any in-kind contributions. Be transparent about how funds will be used and how the project will be financially managed. 6. Partnerships and Collaboration Consider joint applications with other organizations to strengthen your proposal, especially for larger projects. Support letters from partner organizations can add credibility to your application. 7. Impact on the Community Emphasize the environmental benefits and potential community impact of your project. Projects that benefit underserved communities or integrate into larger sustainability plans may receive enhanced consideration. 8. Compliance with Requirements Make sure your project complies with local solid waste ordinances and that all recyclable materials collected through the project will be processed by CCRRA. 9. Complete and Accurate Documentation Carefully follow the application guidelines, including submitting all required documents such as budget forms, match commitment letters, and support letters. Double-check that all forms are completed accurately before submission. 10. Plan for Reporting and Documentation Be prepared to meet all reporting requirements, including progress reports, disbursement documentation, and a final project report. Maintain thorough records of all project activities, expenses, and outcomes. By following these tips, you can enhance the quality of your application and increase your chances of receiving funding from the CCRRA Recycling Mini-Grant Program.