Description
The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is seeking private nonprofit organizations to provide free technical assistance and training to rural water and wastewater systems. Grantees will help identify and evaluate water‑ and waste‑related problems, assist communities in preparing loan or grant applications, and improve operation, maintenance, and sustainability of existing facilities—including addressing emerging contaminants such as PFAS and lead. Funding of approximately $35 million is anticipated for FY 2027, with roughly 22 awards expected. Projects must be completed within a 12‑month performance period (Oct 2027‑Sep 2028) and may include workshops, cybersecurity support, revenue‑enhancement strategies, and regionalization analyses. No cost‑sharing is required, but voluntary matching may earn points. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofits incorporated by Dec 31 of the application year.
• Target audience: private nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3)) with experience in water/waste technical assistance.
• Scope: technical assistance, training, needs assessments, application preparation, operational sustainability, contaminant remediation.
• Funding: $35 M total, ~22 awards, no minimum/maximum award amount.
• Timeline: Applications Oct 1 2026 – Dec 31 2026; award notice Sep 2027; performance Oct 2027 – Sep 2028.
• Evaluation criteria include organizational experience, staff‑to‑contractor ratio, population served, income metrics, and project duration (≤12 months preferred).