The Rural Water and Wastewater Technical Assistance and Training (TAT) Program for Fiscal Year 2025 is a grant opportunity from the USDA's Rural Utilities Service (RUS). This program provides funding to private nonprofit organizations to offer technical assistance and training for addressing water and wastewater issues in rural areas. The focus includes helping communities prepare applications for water and waste disposal loans and grants, managing and maintaining water facilities, tackling contaminants like PFAS, and supporting lead remediation, cybersecurity, disaster resilience, and water reuse.

Approximately $35 million is anticipated for FY 2025, though the final amount depends on congressional appropriations. There is no set minimum or maximum award amount, and grants are competitive, based on scoring criteria. The award performance period runs from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, and funds can be renewed with new applications.

Eligible applicants are private nonprofit organizations with tax-exempt status, including tribally-owned nonprofits. Applicants must have been incorporated by December 31 of the year the application period occurs and demonstrate experience with similar projects. Federal agencies, public bodies, private businesses, and individuals are ineligible. There is no cost-sharing requirement for this grant.

The application deadline is December 31, 2024, and applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. Required documentation includes proof of active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM), a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and completed certifications and representations in SAM.

Grant applications are evaluated based on criteria such as the applicant's experience, organizational structure, population served, and project goals. Points are awarded for factors like supporting underserved populations, reducing climate pollution, and promoting economic recovery. Applications are ranked, and grants are awarded based on score and funding availability, with discretion held by the RU.S. Administrator for final decision-making. The award process includes reimbursement based on the completion of approved activities.

The USDA emphasizes nondiscrimination and equal opportunity, including for religious organizations. Additionally, applicants must comply with environmental policies, civil rights laws, and data transparency regulations. For questions, contact information is available on the USDA TAT Program website or through specified USDA personnel.