EPA Announces $49 Million to Support Wastewater Upgrades in Rural and Tribal Communities
EPA is supporting rural, small, and tribal communities with technical assistance to improve wastewater systems and protect clean water.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Apr 30, 2025
The EPA has announced $49 million in grant funding to help rural, small, and tribal communities improve wastewater infrastructure and meet Clean Water Act requirements.
The funding, part of the Rural, Small and Tribal Clean Water Technical Assistance Grant Program, will be distributed to six technical assistance organizations. These groups will assist hundreds of communities with planning, designing, and financing essential wastewater projects, advancing the EPA’s Powering the Great American Comeback initiative.
“Small and rural communities are the backbone of this great country, and EPA is committed to partnering with them to provide clean and safe water,” said EPA Senior Advisor Jessica Kramer. “With $49 million, more communities will receive assistance for upgrading essential wastewater infrastructure.”
Grants are expected to be awarded to the following recipients after completion of legal and administrative reviews:
Matt Holmes, CEO of the National Rural Water Association, praised the announcement. “Funding for hands-on assistance programs is essential for addressing the significant water and wastewater challenges faced by the small and rural communities across our nation,” Holmes said.
Olga Morales Pate, CEO of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership, added: “RCAP is positioned to continue to provide customized assistance to small utilities, particularly those who need it most. We appreciate and support EPA's commitment to improve the quality of life of those who call rural America home.”
Many rural and tribal systems struggle with aging infrastructure, workforce shortages, and rising costs. The grant-funded providers will deliver training, assist with funding applications, and promote best practices to ensure long-term infrastructure reliability.
To learn more or request help for your community, visit:
EPA’s Water Technical Assistance page
Training and technical assistance resources for small, rural, and Tribal wastewater systems
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for EPOnlne.