Grants to improve Recycling and Organic Collections in Minnesota

The Recycling Grant, offered through BizRecycling—a program of Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy (R&E)—is a locally administered funding opportunity designed to improve waste management practices within Ramsey and Washington counties in Minnesota. The program supports schools, businesses, nonprofits, and residential properties in transitioning toward or enhancing recycling and organics collection systems. The grant is part of a broader initiative by R&E, a joint powers board operating on behalf of Ramsey and Washington counties, to help achieve Minnesota’s mandated 75% recycling goal. By leveraging partnerships and providing tailored support, R&E’s mission is to promote public health and environmental well-being by converting waste into valuable resources. The Recycling Grant consists of two core components: a cash grant and a direct-ship bin program. The cash grant supports equipment, infrastructure, and educational needs required to enhance recycling and organics operations. Meanwhile, the direct-ship bin program supplies physical waste sorting materials directly to eligible recipients. For example, applicants may receive recycling bins, organics containers, signage, and sorting stations based on their site-specific needs. Totes and educational signage are also freely available without a formal grant application, ensuring widespread accessibility of foundational materials. There is no required minimum funding request, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are depleted. Eligible entities include for-profit and nonprofit businesses, private colleges, places of worship, private and charter schools (with certain enrollment limits), and multi-unit residential buildings with five or more units. All applicants must have a physical location in Ramsey or Washington County and maintain active registration status with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Ineligible applicants include home-based businesses, public schools (with specified exceptions), public entities, and higher education institutions managed under Minnesota’s public university systems. The grant funds can be used for a wide array of eligible expenses. These include recycling and organics containers, compactors, food donation and reusable food service equipment, educational materials, and staff training. Certain costs, such as refrigeration, labor for managing waste, and items like branded tumblers or water bottles, are excluded. Additionally, grant funds may support infrastructure upgrades like loading dock improvements and waste enclosure constructions. Each applicant must undergo a site assessment with a BizRecycling Recycling Expert, who will guide them through the application, assess existing practices, and help develop a tailored plan and pricing documentation. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and are reviewed by R&E staff in collaboration with Ramsey and Washington County personnel. The application process typically takes eight weeks, and approved applicants will enter into an 18-month performance agreement. They are required to submit a final report and complete a post-implementation site walkthrough. An incentive of $250 is granted for successful completion of this final phase. The grant is non-recurring but allows businesses to reapply for additional funds until their maximum award threshold is met, encouraging continual improvement in recycling practices. To initiate the application process, applicants must email [email protected] or call 651-768-6670 to schedule a site assessment. The Recycling Expert assigned to the site will create an online account for the applicant and assist in compiling the necessary documentation. This grant opportunity remains open year-round, creating a flexible pathway for eligible organizations to enhance sustainability through waste reduction and diversion programs.

Coordinate early with a Recycling Expert to ensure application alignment and expedite site visit scheduling.