GHHI’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

The Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI), in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is offering the Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. This initiative provides financial support for projects targeting environmental and health challenges in historically disinvested communities throughout EPA’s Region 3. This region includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and seven federally recognized tribes. A total of $50 million in funding, sourced from the Inflation Reduction Act, will be distributed to over 200 eligible projects.

The purpose of this program is to empower local organizations to implement community-driven solutions that address public health, environmental hazards, and climate resilience. Eligible projects can span a wide range of areas, such as pollution monitoring and remediation, water quality sampling, healthy housing improvements, lead and asbestos contamination, stormwater infrastructure, illegal dumping education and cleanup, climate adaptation, and youth environmental health training. The program also seeks to enhance community engagement in public policy and environmental decision-making processes.

Three tiers of grant funding are available based on project scope. Tier I (Assessment) offers 1-year grants of $150,000 for activities like sampling, testing, public education, and surveys. Tier II (Planning) provides up to $250,000 over one to two years for planning, community outreach, training, and limited land acquisition. Tier III (Development) awards $350,000 for two-year projects focused on project implementation, technical development, and permitting. Additionally, ten non-competitive $75,000 grants are planned for organizations with severe capacity constraints, although these will not be distributed through the main application process.

Eligible applicants must operate within EPA Region 3 and possess a Unique Entity ID registered through SAM.gov. The application portal remains open for Tier I and Tier II 1-year grants until April 30, 2025, or until all funds are awarded. Awards are issued on a rolling basis. All applicants must submit their applications through the designated portal and can access FAQs and office hours for assistance. Office hours are held every Monday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern Time, with advance registration required.

Application questions are addressed during office hours or by contacting the program via email or phone. Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review all resources before seeking support to ensure efficient use of program officer time. Registration for office hours requires submission of a relevant question and is limited to one session per organization.

The program prioritizes initiatives that promote environmental justice, support disadvantaged communities, and improve public health through sustainable and equitable infrastructure, education, and engagement. Successful applicants will receive technical assistance from GHHI and partners throughout the grant lifecycle to maximize project impact and long-term benefits.