This program assists low-income communities with initial planning and development of applications for USDA Rural Development Water and Waste direct loan/grant and loan guarantee programs.

• Grants may be used to pay part of the costs of developing a complete application for USDA Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal direct loan/grant and loan guarantee programs
• Grants may not be used to pay for work already completed
• These grants do not have to be paid back if the application for the USDA direct loan or loan/grant combination is not successful
• Grants are based on demonstrated need and are subject to the availability of funds
• Partnerships with other federal, state and local entities are encouraged, and grants are awarded only when the applicant cannot afford to borrow the needed funds
• At least 25 percent of the project cost must come from the applicant or third-party sources. In-kind contributions do not count toward this minimum
• Maximum of $30,000 or 75 percent of the predevelopment planning costs

• Municipal Government
• Tribal Communities
• Non-profit Organizations

Municipal Government must have populations of 10,000 or less.

The area must also have a median household income below the poverty line or less than 80 percent of the statewide non-metropolitan median household income.

• Grants may be used to pay part of the costs of developing a complete application for USDA Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal direct loan/grant and loan guarantee programs
• Planning and development of application for USDA Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal Loan/Grant

Applications for this program are accepted year-round through your local RD office.

Program Resources are available online (forms, guidance, certifications, etc.).