Transit Assistance Grant (TAG) Program

The Transit Assistance Grant (TAG) Program, administered by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), is designed to support organizations that provide critical services to individuals with immediate transportation needs. The program offers in-kind grants in the form of RTD fare media, specifically standard paper 10-Ride Ticket books, to qualifying nonprofit and governmental community service organizations. These fare grants aim to act as a temporary measure while eligible clients enroll in RTD’s LiVE Program, an income-based fare discount initiative. In 2026, RTD has committed up to $1 million in fare media for distribution through the TAG Program. The objective is to empower service providers that help vulnerable populations, including individuals in crisis situations or experiencing homelessness, to access essential services and safety. Examples include supporting those applying for the RTD LiVE program, individuals in crisis seeking medical or mental health support, and persons needing emergency transportation to shelter or safety. Eligibility is restricted to nonprofit organizations recognized under I.R.S. § 501(c)(3) and governmental community or social service agencies. Applicants must directly assist clients with urgent transportation needs and agree to distribute the fare tickets solely to eligible clients at no cost. Additionally, recipients must maintain good account standing with RTD, comply with program reporting requirements, and actively assist clients in enrolling in the RTD LiVE Program. All grantees must implement educational and support measures for the RTD LiVE program, which includes providing program overviews, materials, and assisting with applications. Attendance at RTD-provided training webinars is required. Grantees must also manage fare media inventory, fulfill orders to eligible recipients, and keep detailed records of ticket disbursements in accordance with their agreement with RTD. The application window for the 2026 TAG Program opens on December 8, 2025, and closes on January 5, 2026. Interested organizations must submit their completed applications, including all required documentation, either through the designated portal or by mailing to the RTD Administrative Offices in Denver. However, applicants must choose only one submission method to avoid duplication. A panel comprised of RTD staff will review all submissions using transparent selection criteria, and successful applicants will be notified in accordance with RTD’s timeline. An optional application support webinar will be held on December 17, 2025.

Emphasize clarity in explaining how tickets will be distributed and how clients will be educated on the LiVE Program; ensure strong documentation and agreement compliance