Recycling Grants Program

The Recycling Grants Program is part of the Environmental Protection and Sustainability Division Sustainability Grants Program administered by the County of Maui. Guided by the principle of Malama Aina, the program emphasizes environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management. This specific grant category is designed to support initiatives that reduce waste and promote recycling practices across Maui County, including the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. The program aligns with the county’s broader sustainability goals by encouraging projects that minimize landfill use and improve material recovery systems. The primary purpose of the Recycling Grants Program is to fund projects that focus on diverting waste from disposal streams and reducing overall waste generation. Eligible activities include the purchase of recycling equipment, expansion of existing recycling programs, educational initiatives related to waste reduction, and the collection or processing of recyclable materials. These efforts are intended to strengthen local recycling infrastructure, increase community participation, and improve the efficiency of waste management systems throughout the county. The total available funding for this grant category is 1000000 dollars. This funding is allocated as a single pool to support multiple recycling-related projects within Maui County. While individual award amounts are not specified, applicants must submit a detailed budget outlining how funds will be allocated across eligible expense categories. These include personnel, operations, equipment and supplies, promotion, travel, administrative costs, and other project-related expenses. Administrative costs are limited to a maximum of 15 percent of the total grant request, ensuring that most funds are directed toward direct project activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit and for profit organizations that meet the qualifying standards established by the County of Maui. Applicants must be legally incorporated and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. Nonprofit organizations must demonstrate tax-exempt status and maintain governance structures that prevent conflicts of interest. All applicants must be current on tax obligations and adhere to non-discrimination and workplace compliance policies. Organizations located outside Maui County may apply but must establish a local advisory presence if they intend to provide services within the county. The application process requires submission of a completed grant application form via email to the Environmental Protection and Sustainability Division. Applicants must provide a comprehensive project description that outlines objectives, implementation strategies, and alignment with the County of Maui Climate Action and Resiliency Plan. Evaluation criteria are weighted across three primary components: project description accounts for 50 percent, measurable outcomes for 25 percent, and budget justification for 25 percent. Applicants must also define measurable goals and expected outcomes for each fiscal quarter of the grant period. The application period for the fiscal year 2027 cycle is currently open, with proposals due by May 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM. An informational session is scheduled for April 30, 2026 to provide applicants with guidance on the program and application requirements. The grant performance period runs from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Applicants must submit supporting documentation based on their organizational type, including financial statements, audits, bylaws, and IRS documentation where applicable. Overall, the Recycling Grants Program provides targeted funding to support waste reduction and recycling initiatives within Maui County. By investing in infrastructure, education, and program expansion, the grant helps improve environmental outcomes and supports the county’s long-term sustainability objectives while maintaining strong accountability through structured application and compliance requirements.

Emphasize waste diversion impact and measurable recycling outcomes; align with Climate Action and Resiliency Plan; provide detailed and justified budget