Crush it Crusade Program

The Crush It Crusade grant is a community-focused funding initiative administered by Can’d Aid, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting grassroots efforts in sustainability, recycling, and community engagement. Since its inception, the program has funded over one hundred community organizations, municipalities, and event-based initiatives to improve recycling outcomes and reduce waste. Supported by partners such as the Ball Foundation, the program emphasizes environmental stewardship through public education, volunteer mobilization, and infrastructure support. The grant operates as part of a broader mission to promote aluminum can recyclability and reduce reliance on single-use plastics through community-driven solutions. The primary purpose of the Crush It Crusade grant is to strengthen and expand recycling programs at community events and festivals across the United States. Eligible projects include recycling efforts at annual events such as music festivals, art fairs, food and beverage festivals, and recurring event series like farmers markets or seasonal celebrations. The program specifically targets initiatives that have already established a recycling component and are seeking to improve performance, increase participation, and enhance public awareness. Applicants must demonstrate an existing commitment to recycling and provide a clear plan for scaling their impact through education, engagement, and operational improvements. Funding provided through the grant is flexible and can be used for a variety of purposes directly related to recycling program enhancement. Allowable expenses include the purchase of recycling equipment, collection bins, and signage; subsidization of hauling and logistics costs; volunteer outreach and training; and the development of educational materials and on-site engagement activities. The program encourages grantees to act as ambassadors for sustainable practices by promoting recycling awareness, highlighting the benefits of aluminum can recyclability, and advocating for reduced use of single-use plastics at events. Eligibility for the grant is limited to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, local education organizations, and local government entities. Applicants must be organizing or supporting community-based events with an existing recycling program and must demonstrate active volunteer involvement and a commitment to attendee education. Applications are evaluated based on several criteria, including the potential for improved waste diversion, the strength of volunteer participation, and the effectiveness of educational and engagement strategies. Additional consideration is given to applicants that can demonstrate how grant funding will significantly enhance their recycling efforts and promote the broader goals of the Crush It Crusade movement. The application process for the Crush It Crusade grant is straightforward and does not include a formal pre-application requirement such as a letter of intent. Applicants are expected to submit a complete proposal during the open application window, outlining their current recycling efforts, expansion plans, budget, and community engagement strategy. The 2026 to 2027 grant cycle opens on August 1, 2026, and closes on September 30, 2026 at 10:00 AM Mountain Standard Time. Applications are reviewed by Can’d Aid, and selected recipients are notified during the week of October 19, 2026. Following selection, grant funding is distributed to awardees during the week of November 9, 2026. Recipients are required to fulfill several reporting and participation obligations throughout the grant period. These include submitting data on materials collected and volunteer hours for each supported event via an online reporting form, displaying Crush It Crusade marketing materials at events and on digital platforms, and participating in quarterly cohort webinars. Grantees also gain access to a resource library and a collaborative network of peers to share best practices and improve program outcomes. The Crush It Crusade grant operates on an annual cycle, providing recurring funding opportunities for organizations committed to advancing recycling and sustainability efforts in their communities. Grant amounts typically range from four thousand to ten thousand dollars, depending on the scale and scope of the project. Through its combination of financial support, education, and community collaboration, the program aims to create lasting improvements in recycling infrastructure and behavior at the local level.

Emphasize measurable waste diversion impact, strong volunteer engagement, and clear education strategies; highlight alignment with recycling promotion and aluminum sustainability goals