Equipment Grants

The Equipment Grants program is administered by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) under the Sustainable Materials Management division. DEQ operates under Oklahoma statutes to regulate environmental quality, including managing pollution from solid waste. Through this authority, DEQ offers funding opportunities that support the acquisition of equipment critical to local solid waste management operations across the state. The Equipment Grants are designed to assist local and tribal governments, educational institutions, and qualifying nonprofits in improving waste handling and recycling infrastructure. This funding opportunity supports the one-time purchase of solid waste management equipment valued between $5,000 and $50,000. Eligible equipment includes brush chippers, balers, hazardous household waste (HHW) facility equipment, and composting systems. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate plans for storing and maintaining the equipment. The program does not cover the purchase of buildings, vehicles, drones, laptops, or certain law enforcement tools. DEQ reimburses up to 80% of equipment costs within the approved range, and funding is subject to availability. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions of Oklahoma, tribal entities, higher education institutions within the Oklahoma State System, nonprofit organizations meeting sole-source service criteria, and local or statewide organizations representing municipalities or counties. All grantees must enter into a formal agreement with DEQ before incurring costs. Reimbursement is contingent on proper invoicing and adherence to reporting requirements, including monthly updates with photos and metrics. The application window for Fiscal Year 2027 opens on November 1, 2025, and closes on February 28, 2026. Applications are scored using specific evaluation criteria provided within the application form. The submission process requires completion of an online form and, upon review, may involve discussions with DEQ and revision of the scope of work and budget. Successful applicants will receive a formal agreement and purchase order. Only after these are executed can grant-related purchases begin. Invoices must be submitted by August 31, 2027. Failure to submit by that date may result in non-reimbursement. The DEQ aims to process reimbursements within 45 days of receiving proper documentation. Funds must be fully expended by the end of the fiscal year (June 30, 2027). This program recurs annually, with the next application cycle expected in November 2026. For more information or assistance, applicants may contact the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality at 405-702-0100. The official application form is accessible online through the DEQ website.

Submit early to allow for DEQ discussion and scope/budget revision before procurement steps.