Reusable Transport Packaging Equipment Grants

The Reusable Transport Packaging Equipment Grants program, offered by StopWaste, supports businesses, nonprofits, institutions, and school districts in reducing waste associated with transport packaging. These grants help replace single-use materials like plastic pallet wrap, low-grade wood pallets, cardboard boxes, and dunnage with durable, reusable alternatives. The program is designed to reduce landfill waste, lower long-term packaging costs, and improve operational efficiency by funding reusable transport packaging solutions. The primary objective of the grant is to fund projects that eliminate disposable transport packaging materials within Alameda County or materials used for transporting goods destined for Alameda County. The program emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of switching to reusable alternatives, such as reusable pallet wraps, rubber pallet bands, durable pallets, hand-held crates, bulk containers, and refillable drums. Projects that involve replacing repurposed materials, such as used cardboard boxes that are donated for reuse, are not eligible. Funding of up to $75,000 is available through this program, with a maximum of $10,000 per applicant. Applicants may not apply for multiple equipment grants at the same time, meaning they must choose between this grant and the Surplus Food Donation Equipment Grant if eligible for both. If funds remain after the initial awards, additional grants may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible applicants include businesses, nonprofits, institutions, and school districts. Organizations that have received prior funding through this program must contact the grant manager to determine eligibility for repeat funding. The grant requires that projects either reduce transport packaging waste within Alameda County or apply to packaging used to transport goods into the county. Applications for the 2025 grant cycle open on January 6, 2025, and close on February 24, 2025. Grant awards will be announced on March 12, 2025. If funding remains available after the initial round of grants, awards will continue to be distributed until funds are exhausted. To support applicants, free technical assistance is available both during the application process and throughout project implementation. Assistance includes equipment and vendor recommendations, cost-benefit analysis, and guidance on return logistics. Organizations with potential projects can reach out to the grant manager for further support.