The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to advancing Environmental justice and has announced the availability of $550 million from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act to expedite investments through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking (EJ TCGM) program. 

The EJ TCGM program will fund up to 11 entities to serve as grantmakers for community-based projects that reduce Pollution. This innovative program will develop an efficient, simplified process so that organizations that historically have faced barriers to receiving funding can more seamlessly apply for grants that address environmental harms and risks. The entities eligible to apply and serve as an Environmental justice Thriving Communities Grantmaker fall into four categories: a community-based nonprofit organization, a partnership of community-based nonprofit organizations, a partnership between a Tribal Nation and a community-based nonprofit organization, or a partnership between an institution of higher education and a community-based nonprofit organization.

The new program advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to achieving Environmental justice by building early, meaningful, and sustained partnerships with communities. This initiative is part of the Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that have been overburdened by Pollution and historic underinvestment. EPA will continue to uphold the goals of the Justice40 Initiative by ensuring funds reach communities that have often been unable to access resources due to high barriers to entry.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said, “Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, including the largest ever investment in Environmental justice, we’re removing barriers and moving faster to deliver this unprecedented relief to the communities who need it most.” EPA intends to award up to 11 cooperative agreements under this RFA for up to approximately $50 million each to be funded incrementally over a 3-year period. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2023, and EPA expects these grantmakers to begin awarding subgrants to community-based organizations no later than early 2024.

This initiative is a significant step towards achieving environmental justice, and it’s crucial for communities to take advantage of the opportunity to apply for the grant. Environmental justice is about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or income level, has access to a clean and safe environment. It’s about fairness, and this program will help level the playing field for disadvantaged communities. 

By prioritizing Environmental justice, we can build a more sustainable, healthy, and equitable future for everyone. If you’re interested in learning more about the program or applying for the grant, visit the EPA website or Grants.gov to view the Request for Applications. It’s time to work together and create a brighter future for all.

Make Some Noise Sweatshirt by Tiny Rescue: Climate Collection

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