Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE) Administrator

The Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE) is a grant solicitation issued by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), a state agency responsible for improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across California. CARB operates under legislative mandates such as the California Alternative and Renewable Fuel, Vehicle Technology, Clean Air, and Carbon Reduction Act and subsequent statutes that guide investments in clean transportation technologies. Through CORE, CARB seeks to partner with a qualified grantee to administer a statewide voucher incentive program that accelerates the deployment of zero-emission off-road equipment. The selected grantee will serve as the program administrator and work in coordination with CARB to implement and manage the initiative over multiple fiscal years. The primary purpose of CORE is to increase the adoption and commercialization of advanced zero-emission off-road equipment by providing financial incentives in the form of vouchers to purchasers and lessees. These vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are designed to reduce the upfront cost of eligible equipment. The program prioritizes environmental and equity outcomes, with a stated goal that at least fifty percent of supported equipment be deployed in disadvantaged communities. By facilitating the transition away from fossil-fuel-powered equipment, CORE contributes to California’s broader climate goals, including significant reductions in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Funding for CORE is derived from state appropriations and is subject to annual allocation through programs such as the Air Quality Improvement Program and California Climate Investments. While exact funding amounts are not guaranteed, the solicitation outlines anticipated funding levels across multiple fiscal years. The majority of funds are reserved for voucher incentives, while up to ten percent may be used by the grantee for administrative and support services, and up to five percent may be retained by CARB for state operations. The grant agreement term extends through June 30, 2032, with potential extensions depending on future funding allocations. Advance payments may be issued to support program startup and implementation, subject to strict financial controls and reporting requirements. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to California-based public entities and nonprofit organizations. Eligible applicants include local air districts, municipalities, counties, special districts, and nonprofit organizations that are registered and in good standing with the California Secretary of State. Applicants must submit a complete application package, including required attachments such as a project implementation plan, proposed budget, and organizational qualifications. Only one application per organization is permitted, and applicants must disclose any subcontracting relationships. The application process is competitive, and proposals are evaluated based on criteria such as experience, implementation strategy, budget clarity, and ability to serve disadvantaged communities. The application process requires submission via email by a specified deadline, with no allowance for late or incomplete applications. Applicants must complete all required forms and provide detailed documentation demonstrating their capacity to administer a large-scale statewide program. Evaluation criteria include seven scoring categories totaling one hundred points, with emphasis on technical expertise, budget adequacy, outreach capabilities, and equity considerations. CARB reserves the right to request clarifications, negotiate terms, or reject applications at its discretion. The timeline for this solicitation begins with its public release in March, followed by a workshop in April to address applicant questions. Applications are due in May, with preliminary selection expected in June. The selected grantee will enter into a formal grant agreement and begin implementation activities, including program planning, stakeholder engagement, voucher processing, and reporting. Ongoing responsibilities include data collection, public outreach, coordination with other funding programs, and compliance with all regulatory and reporting requirements. The program also includes mechanisms for performance monitoring, evaluation, and eventual transition or transfer of responsibilities at the end of the grant term. Overall, CORE represents a significant investment in clean technology deployment and environmental equity. The program’s structure emphasizes accountability, transparency, and measurable outcomes, requiring the grantee to manage complex administrative, financial, and technical responsibilities. Through this initiative, CARB aims to accelerate the transition to zero-emission equipment while delivering tangible benefits to communities across California.

Ensure all required attachments are complete and signed; emphasize experience with large-scale programs and disadvantaged communities; provide detailed and clear budget aligned with implementation plan