Greener Grounds Grant

The Greener Grounds Grant, offered by Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB), provides financial support to outdoor events in Louisiana aiming to implement effective litter prevention, waste reduction, and recycling strategies. This initiative is part of a broader effort by KLB to reduce the environmental impact of the state’s over 400 annual festivals and large-scale gatherings. The program is supported by the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism and prioritizes practices that protect the state’s waterways, public spaces, and cultural heritage. Designed as a reimbursement grant, Greener Grounds awards up to $10,000 for events hosting 3,000 or more attendees per day, and up to $5,000 for those with 1,000 or more daily attendees. All applicants must provide a minimum 15% match, which can be met through cash, in-kind donations, or volunteer hours. Eligible expenses include litter prevention supplies, signage, educational materials, volunteer-related costs, and certain types of waste collection infrastructure. However, expenses such as dumpsters, hauling fees, and labor from for-profit providers are ineligible. To qualify, applicants must be Louisiana-based municipalities, parishes, or nonprofit organizers of large outdoor events, including parades, fairs, and concerts. Events must be held outdoors in Louisiana, open to the public, and occur after the grant agreement is signed but before the final report deadline. Additional eligibility requirements include good standing with the Louisiana Secretary of State, completion of a W-9 form, and state vendor certification. Fiscal sponsorship is not allowed. The application period for the 2025–26 cycle is closed. Based on historical cadence, the next application window is anticipated to open in March 2026. The grant cycle ends for all recipients on May 31, 2026, by which time grantees must complete their final reports, including the Greener Grounds Workbook, reimbursement request with supporting documentation, media acknowledgments, and evidence of program impact. Submission of the final report is a strict condition for reimbursement and future eligibility. Required deliverables include a signed agreement, attendance at an informational webinar, community engagement, branding compliance with KLB logos, and proactive communications such as press releases, social media posts, and acknowledgment letters to elected officials. Grantees must also host a related event during Love the Boot Week in April 2026. This grant is more than financial support; it promotes environmental accountability and public education. By aligning with the best practices outlined in the Greener Grounds Guidebook and Workbook, event organizers can significantly reduce their ecological footprint and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Louisiana.

Plan early; involve community and volunteers; comply with signage and branding requirements for reimbursement.