2024 Metropolitan Atlanta Arts Grant

The Waste Reduction & Innovation Grant (WRIG), offered by BizRecycling, aims to significantly reduce solid waste generated by eligible schools, businesses, and nonprofits in Ramsey and Washington counties, Minnesota. This grant directly aligns with BizRecycling's mission to increase waste reduction and recycling activities within the business community, support source-specific reduction and reuse, and provide innovative, sustainable solutions to waste problems. It prioritizes managing operations higher on the waste management hierarchy, encompassing waste reduction, reuse, market development, food recovery, composting, and handling hard-to-recycle materials. The target beneficiaries include for-profit businesses, nonprofits, private colleges and universities, places of worship, and specific private and charter schools in Ramsey and Washington counties. Ineligible entities include home-based businesses, all public entities, and residential apartment buildings. The grant's impact goals are centered on increasing waste reduction and recycling, supporting source-specific needs, and providing innovative solutions, ultimately leading to a significant reduction in the amount of mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) that businesses create. The grant prioritizes projects demonstrating clear impact through estimated weight in pounds of reduced waste, recycling, or organic material, and innovation through the implementation of new ideas or technologies with clear waste reduction outcomes. Funding information indicates one-time grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded, requiring a 10% cash match from applicants. Uses of funds are categorized into equipment & materials, construction & infrastructure, research & development, and education & engagement, all designed to support waste reduction and recycling capabilities. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in solid waste, the adoption of more sustainable waste management practices, and the development of innovative solutions within the business community. This contributes to the broader strategic priority of fostering a more environmentally responsible business landscape in Ramsey and Washington counties. The theory of change suggests that by providing financial support for planning, equipment, supplies, and capital improvements, businesses and organizations will be empowered to implement effective waste reduction strategies, leading to a healthier environment and more sustainable economic practices.