Philanthropy Northwest EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

Environmental justice means making certain that all communities-regardless of their economic or social class-receive a fair chance at a healthy, sustainable environment. In acknowledgment of the increasing need to address the existing environmental disparities, Philanthropy Northwest, in collaboration with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, manages the EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. It provides essential funding towards the resolution of environmental inequities through the work of organizations, especially those in highly underrepresented communities bearing the largest burden from environmental hazards.

The blog outlines the core aspects of the program: communities it serves, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

What is the EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program?

The EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program was born to address and reduce environmental disparities in various communities across the United States. Philanthropy Northwest administers this critical program to support efforts of grassroots organizations, local nonprofits, and community groups in their work toward a future when all people can benefit from clean air, safe water, and healthy living conditions.

This program allows local organizations to design and implement projects that contribute directly to improved environmental health outcomes and that empower communities to advance their rights to a safe and sustainable environment.

Key Program Goals

• Reduce Environmental Hazards: Projects that contribute to a reduction in levels of pollution or any other member of the family of environmental hazards are supportable.
• Empower Community Voices: Providing communities with the resources to act and engage in local environmental decisions.
• Foster Equity and Inclusion: Address the unfair share of environmental burdens borne by marginalized communities, ensuring that they receive no less than full support for all their needs.

Addressing Environmental Disparities in Vulnerable Communities

Environmental justice seeks to protect all communities from disproportionate pollution, climate change, and other environmental hazards. Unfortunately, low-income and minority communities often bear a higher brunt of these issues: they are more exposed to pollutants and have lesser access to clean and safe resources.

The grant program from the EPA provides the pathway for traditionally excluded communities in decision-making processes on major environmental issues to be participants in devising and implementing solutions that benefit the people and the environment.

Eligibility Criteria for the Grant Program

While specific eligibility criteria are detailed on the EPA’s program page, general requirements typically include:

• Audience: These would be organizations that work for communities disproportionately impacted by environmental issues.
• Project scope: Activities addressed reducing the risk of environmental hazards, improving access to clean energy, or reducing burdens of public health outcomes related to environmental hazards.
• Nonprofit Status: Eligibility frequently includes, but is not limited to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and other non-governmental organizations.

This is in line with the mission of Philanthropy Northwest to have equity, environmental justice, and community empowerment become the shared commitment of all organizations participating in it.

How to Apply for the EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grant

Applications for the EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grant are highly competitive. A great deal of preparation and advance planning are required. If interested in applying for funding, an organization should first visit the EPA Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program page to review full application guidelines.

To apply:

1. Review Eligibility and Application Requirements: Make sure your organization and project goals are in alignment with the objectives of the EPA.
2. Gather Required Documentation: All necessary documentation should be collected, including project descriptions, budget plans, and impact statements.
3. Submit the Application: Applications must be submitted online through the portal by Philanthropy Northwest and the EPA by following step-by-step actions provided on the program webpage.

In addition to essential funding, selected candidates will join a growing network of changemakers who are committed to environmental justice and equity.

How Fluxx Enhances Grant Management for the EPA Environmental Justice Program

Our grantmaking is powered through Fluxx software, creating an efficient process from application submission to administration. Fluxx simplifies the various moving parts in tracking grant applications, document management, and reporting involved in the process, freeing up more time and resources for Philanthropy Northwest to engage directly with applicants. Fluxx provides efficiency, ease of use, enhanced communications, and full transparency in managing each application with thoroughness and accuracy.

Join the Movement for Environmental Equity

The EPA's Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program is yet another monumental move toward an equitable and just environmental future. By making sure this impactful shift materializes at the organizational level, Philanthropy Northwest and EPA will forge a path through which healthy, resilient communities can prosper throughout the United States.

To learn more about this grant and how to apply, visit the Philanthropy Northwest website.