Grants to improve Recycling and Organic Collections in Minnesota

Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy (R&E), a joint powers board representing Ramsey and Washington counties in Minnesota, administers the Recycling Grant program to support local waste reduction and recycling efforts. This program is designed to assist businesses, schools, institutions, non-profits, places of worship, and multi-unit residential properties in implementing or improving recycling and organic waste collection systems. R&E's broader mission is to protect public health and the environment by enhancing the value derived from waste materials. This aligns with the state's recycling goal of achieving a 75% diversion rate. The grant program includes two key components: a cash grant and direct-ship bins. The cash grant supports the purchase of equipment, infrastructure upgrades, supplies, and educational materials necessary to enhance recycling and organics collection. The direct-ship bins component enables applicants to receive recycling and organics containers directly from the BizRecycling catalog. Both components require an application. Additional free resources such as bin labels and educational materials for multi-unit properties are available without a grant application. Funding varies by applicant type. Most eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 total, combining both cash and bin shipments. Small businesses such as food trucks and vendors in shared facilities may be eligible for up to $2,500. Multi-unit residential properties can receive up to $10,000 for public space bins, with larger properties eligible for an additional $10,000 for infrastructure improvements. There is no minimum award amount, and matching funds are not required. Applicants can reapply for additional funds until they reach the program cap. The application process begins with a mandatory site visit by an R&E Recycling Expert who will assess waste management systems and assist in preparing the application. The completed application includes a 500-word project description, a W-9 form, and agreement to host up to three site visits over an 18-month period. Applicants must also enter into a formal grant agreement and submit a final testimonial and report at the end of the term. Applications are accepted year-round and evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, with processing times of approximately eight weeks. Evaluation criteria include the clarity and realism of proposed outcomes, potential impact on waste diversion, and the degree of engagement with employees, residents, or other stakeholders. Funding can be used for a wide array of eligible expenses, including waste collection containers, compostable supplies, reusable serviceware, educational signage, and even dishwashing equipment. Restrictions include ineligible items such as refrigeration units, freezers, labor costs, and water bottles. Final disbursement of $250 is withheld until successful completion of reporting and final site verification. To request a required site visit, applicants can email [email protected] or call 651-266-1199. While there is no set deadline, funding is available until fully disbursed, making early application advisable. Because the grant is noncompetitive and operates on a rolling basis, timely coordination with an R&E Recycling Expert is essential to ensure full consideration and maximize award potential.