Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Planning
Highlights
This program offers up to $500,000 to businesses like yours, focusing on providing clean water. It's designed specifically for small community and public water systems that play a crucial role in the well-being of underserved communities. By applying, you gain access to funding that can cover essential planning costs, such as project feasibility studies and environmental reviews. This not only supports your business growth but also fulfills a vital public health need.
Additionally, you could receive grants that require no repayment or low-interest loans with flexible terms of five to ten years. This allows you to invest in your operations without the immediate financial strain. Since applications are accepted on a continuous basis, it’s easy to explore this option when it fits your business timeline.
In short, securing these funds means you’re enhancing your service capabilities while making a significant difference in your community. It's a smart investment in your business and the environment you operate in.
Financing Details
Type of Financing
Eligible projects can receive a maximum principal forgiveness (grant) of $500,000. Additionally, public water systems may be offered loans or partial loans with a subsidized interest rate. The maximum repayment terms are either five or ten years.
Eligible Expenses
Funds can cover a variety of costs including:
- Planning and design documents
- Feasibility studies
- Project reports
- Engineering specifications
- Environmental documents
- Legal costs and fees
- Water rate studies
- Test wells
Restrictions and Fees
Funds cannot be used for non-water related expenses or projects that do not comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act. There are no specific fees indicated for participating in the program, but be sure to check for any associated costs during your application process.
Qualifications
Qualifications for Application:
- Type of Business:
- Small Community Water Systems (SCWs)
- Non-Transient Non-Community Water Systems (NTNC)
- Public Water Systems (PWS)
- Service Community:
- Must serve a small Disadvantaged Community (DAC) or a small Severely Disadvantaged Community (SDAC)
- Funding Amount:
- Eligible for up to $500,000 in principal forgiveness/grant
- Location:
- Available in specific states as managed by the State Water Board
- Legal Structure:
- All legal structures are applicable
- Profit Structure:
- All profit structures are applicable
- Employees Requirements:
- No minimum or maximum employee requirements
- Revenue Requirements:
- No minimum or maximum revenue qualifications
- Type of Business:
Disqualifications:
- Businesses not serving a small DAC or small SDAC are not eligible
- Other business types outside of SCWs, NTNCs, or PWSs do not qualify
Description
This program offers up to $500,000 to support your business in providing clean water. It's designed for small community water systems, non-transient non-community water systems, and public water systems, particularly those serving disadvantaged communities. The funding can cover various planning costs, including project feasibility studies, engineering specifications, and necessary environmental reviews.
You can utilize this funding for projects that address serious health risks. Furthermore, some public water systems may qualify for a loan with a lower interest rate or a grant that does not need to be repaid. The repayment period for loans is typically five to ten years, providing you with time to stabilize your finances.
This funding is available on a continuous basis, so there’s flexibility in applying. By tapping into these resources, you're investing in your business, enhancing public health, and ensuring that your community has access to safe drinking water. It's a valuable opportunity to grow your operations while making a positive impact.
Program Steps
Gather Necessary Documentation
Prepare the following documents for your application:- Business License or Registration
- Financial Statements (last 2-3 years)
- Project Description and Goals
- Feasibility Study or Project Proposal
- Environmental Review Documentation (if applicable)
- Evidence of Community Need (e.g., surveys, letters of support)
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the official application form available on the program's website. Ensure all sections are filled out accurately.Submit Your Application
Send your completed application and all prepared documents to the designated program office. Make sure to follow their submission guidelines.Follow Up
After submitting, check in with the program office to confirm they received your application. Ask about the timeline for decisions.Prepare for Potential Interviews
Be ready to discuss your project and its impact. They may want more details or clarification on your application.Receive Notification
Await official communication regarding the outcome of your application. If selected, you will receive further instructions on the next steps.