Community Air Protection Program Cycle 5 Community Air Grant Request for Applications

The Community Air Grants (CAG) Cycle 5, administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeks to support community-based projects that reduce air pollution and improve air quality in communities disproportionately impacted by poor air quality. The program is part of California’s Community Air Protection Program under Assembly Bill 617, which emphasizes reducing harmful emissions and addressing environmental justice concerns. The grants aim to empower communities, particularly those classified as disadvantaged or low-income, to engage in air quality monitoring, policy advocacy, and local emission reduction initiatives. Projects should align with the updated statewide strategy, Blueprint 2.0, which guides the program's priorities, including fostering equitable participation, supporting workforce development, and advancing environmental justice. The grant funding, sourced from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund through California Climate Investments, offers up to $300,000 for educational projects and up to $500,000 for technical and focused projects. Eligible applicants include California community-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status and California Native American tribes. Ineligible entities are schools, universities, and organizations affiliated with government agencies. Projects must be located in and benefit communities identified as disadvantaged or low-income, based on the CalEnviroScreen 4.0 tool or other state-defined criteria. Applications for Cycle 5 are due by November 1, 2024. The review process will assess proposals based on administrative and technical merit, as well as alignment with program goals. Applicants are encouraged to submit projects that involve community engagement, education on air quality, air monitoring, or emission reduction planning. The application requires a 20-page narrative, including a work plan and budget, along with supporting documentation such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status. Selected projects are expected to start by June 2025, with progress reports due biannually and a final report upon project completion. Eligible costs under the grant include project implementation, personnel expenses, air monitoring equipment, and community outreach activities. However, certain expenses, such as lobbying, litigation, and administrative costs exceeding 20% of the grant, are ineligible. The program also emphasizes transparency and compliance with environmental regulations, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Pre-application assistance, including public workshops, will be provided to guide applicants. For additional support, CARB offers resources like the Community Hub 2.0 and AQview for air quality data visualization. Applicants may also opt for their project to be considered under the Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEP) Program if not selected for the CAG.