40101(d) Grid Resilience Grant Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Federal formula funds passed through competitively to improve the reliability and resilience of Delaware's electric grid.
Varies — check official page (state expects about $1.4 million per program year)
Confirm with agencyGrantEnergyDisaster Prevention & Relief
The catch: Awards depend on U.S. DOE approval of the selected projects and carry DOE administrative and legal requirements.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Round 1 applications ran January 1 to April 1, 2024, with tentative awards May 30, 2025; no later round posted
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Entities eligible under Section 40101(d) proposing grid reliability and resilience projects in Delaware, scored against the advisory committee's goals and metrics.
- How to apply
- Direct application: competitive application to the DNREC State Energy Office when a round opens.
- Applicant types
- Business, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page (state expects about $1.4 million per program year)
- Funding source
- Federal
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- name: Anna Keating; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3355;
Asset Management Incentive Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Grants or loan interest rebates for utilities to build and run asset management plans.
Up to $100,000 per municipality (up to $200,000 for combined wastewater and drinking water)
OpenGrantNo matchEnvironment & Water
The catch: Requires a five-year agreement, an initial asset management plan by the end of the second year and annual plan updates; the consultant scope of work must be approved before contracting.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling; applications accepted any time on a first-come, first-served basis while the annual allocation lasts
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware public wastewater and drinking water utilities that sign a five-year agreement with DNREC/DHSS.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the guidelines-and-application form to DNREC Environmental Finance; DNREC (with DHSS for drinking water) then meets with the utility and its consulting engineers.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Up to $100,000 per municipality (up to $200,000 for combined wastewater and drinking water)
- Funding source
- State
- Match
- Not Required
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Michael Fleming, DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Buffer Incentive Program in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Per-acre incentive payments for planting forest or grass buffers along streams and ditches.
$500 to $1,000 per acre one-time incentive, plus installation and maintenance costs
Confirm with agencyGrantEnvironment & WaterAgriculture
The catch: The buffer must be kept for at least five years; buffers along tax ditches need written approval before installation.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Landowners or local entities in Delaware's Chesapeake Bay watershed with property connected to or next to a stream or ditch; urban buffers at least a quarter acre, rural buffers at least half an acre; agricultural applicants must be in good standing with the Nutrient Management Program or the Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation Program.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the contact form on the program page and DNREC will follow up.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Public Agency, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- $500 to $1,000 per acre one-time incentive, plus installation and maintenance costs
- Funding source
- State
- Geography
- Delaware's Chesapeake Bay watershed
Chesapeake Bay Implementation Grant Program (CBIG)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Competitive grants for nutrient and sediment reduction in Delaware's Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyGrantMatch 100%Environment & WaterAgriculture
The catch: Dollar-for-dollar match on the federal request.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Competitive RFP; FY2026 proposals were accepted through March 6, 2026; no next round posted
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Public and private entities within Delaware's portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed; preference for cooperative partnerships.
- How to apply
- Direct application: respond to the CBIG Request for Proposals with the signature page template; DNREC's Chesapeake Implementation Program selects projects competitively.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency, Nonprofit, Tribal Government, School District, Higher Education, Business, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal
- Match
- 100%
- Geography
- Delaware's portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed
- Contact
- name: Holly Walker, Chesapeake Implementation Program; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-608-5458;
- Statutory authority
- Clean Water Act Section 117(e)(1)(A)
Chesapeake Local Government Implementation Funding Grant (LGIF)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Set-aside grants for local best management practice projects in Delaware's Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyGrantEnvironment & Water
The catch: Projects must implement WIP or pollution control strategy practices; for-profit and agricultural operations can only take part through an eligible partner.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Competitive rounds alongside CBIG; FY2026 proposals were accepted through March 6, 2026; no next round posted
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Local entities in Delaware's portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed (see applicant types); up to two proposals per cycle.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit a proposal in the competitive round run by DNREC's Chesapeake Implementation Program.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal
- Geography
- Delaware's portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed
- Contact
- name: Holly Walker, Chesapeake Implementation Program; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-608-5458;
Conservation District State Cost-Share Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
State-appropriated cost-share for landowner conservation practices, run by the three conservation districts.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyGrantAgricultureEnvironment & Water
The catch: Each district sets its own practices, cost-share rates and maintenance terms; the DNREC page gives no amounts.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Set by each conservation district
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Landowners in the district's county; practice and eligibility rules are set by each conservation district.
- How to apply
- Pass-through: apply to your county conservation district (New Castle 302-365-8970, Kent 302-608-5370, Sussex 302-856-2105).
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- State
- Geography
- Statewide, through the three county conservation districts
- Contact
- name: New Castle Conservation District; tel: 302-365-8970; name: Kent Conservation District; tel: 302-608-5370; name: Sussex Conservation District; tel: 302-856-2105;
- Statutory authority
- 7 Del. C. Ch. 39
Cool Switch Low-Impact Refrigerant Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Grants for switching refrigeration systems to low global-warming-potential refrigerants.
$25 per ton of avoided CO2e, up to the lesser of 50% of project cost or $250,000 (25% or $250,000 for new conventional systems)
Confirm with agencyGrantEnergyEnvironment & Water
The catch: Nothing may be purchased before pre-approval, DNREC may require pre- and post-installation site visits, and the grant is paid only after the project passes final review.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Open program; pre-approval required before purchase; no application window stated
Applicant tip: Apply for an EEIF rebate on the energy savings of the same project; DNREC lets the two be combined.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware non-residential consumers using at least 50 lbs of refrigerant, installing a refrigerant with GWP under 1,500, with pre-approval before buying services, equipment or refrigerants.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit for pre-approval through DNREC's energy efficiency portal with contractor, baseline and replacement system details; after completion submit itemized invoices for final review.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- $25 per ton of avoided CO2e, up to the lesser of 50% of project cost or $250,000 (25% or $250,000 for new conventional systems)
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- name: Lauren Tyre; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3360;
Debris Pit Remediation Reimbursement
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Up to $10,000 back to homeowners who fix a buried debris pit to state specifications.
Up to $10,000
Confirm with agencyRebateEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: Reimbursement only, with cost documentation, and only if the work meets state specifications and was monitored by DNREC staff.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Owners of property with a debris pit whose remediation follows state specifications and is monitored by Division of Watershed Stewardship staff.
- How to apply
- Direct application: report the debris pit with the Debris Pit Reporting Form or call Debris Pit Remediation before starting work so staff can monitor it.
- Applicant types
- Individual
- Award size
- Up to $10,000
- Funding source
- State
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Debris Pit Remediation; tel: 302-834-5555;
Delaware Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Low-interest loans (and cleanup subgrants for public and nonprofit owners) to clean up brownfields.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyGrant or loanEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: Repayable loan with a 10-year maximum term and full repayment due on certain site events; underwriting requires three years of financial statements and an adequate debt coverage ratio.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Brownfield developers able to incur debt for remediation of an eligible brownfield site; subgrants only to county governments, municipalities and nonprofits owning the site (for-profits and state agencies are ineligible for subgrants).
- How to apply
- Direct application: complete the Delaware Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund Guide and Application and submit it to the DNREC Remediation Section.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Individual, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: DNREC Remediation Section; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-395-2600;
Delaware Clean Vehicle Rebate Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Cash rebates for buying or leasing battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
$1,000 to $2,500 per vehicle
Confirm with agencyRebateTransportationEnergy
The catch: The rebate may be taxable income for federal and Delaware purposes, leases must be at least 36 months, and individual applicants must first obtain a Supplier ID (processing takes 8 to 10 weeks).
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Open; apply within 90 days of purchase; amounts fixed until the program is reevaluated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware residents (new or used) and businesses (new) buying or leasing an eligible vehicle on the driveelectricdelaware.org list; leases must run at least 36 months, and vehicles bought before May 1, 2026 are no longer eligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application: register as a State eSupplier, then apply at driveelectricdelaware.org within 90 days of purchase; or buy or lease from a participating dealer, who applies the rebate at sale.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business
- Award size
- $1,000 to $2,500 per vehicle
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 866-208-3198 (program assistance), 302-735-3480;
Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Rebate Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Rebates for Level 2 EV charging stations at multi-family, public, workplace and fleet sites.
Up to $5,000 per single-port and $10,000 per dual-port charger; multi-family sites capped at $75,000
OpenRebateTransportationEnergy
The catch: You pay all costs up front, including installation and utility upgrades, and are reimbursed afterward; installation must be finished within one year of pre-approval, public/fleet/workplace rebates are limited to ten ports per location, and the rebate may be taxable.
Next deadline: Rolling · First-come first-served until the $2 million is used
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Level 2 charging projects at Delaware multi-family (4+ units), public access, fleet or workplace sites; Priority Area status requires a DelDOT Equity Focus Area or EPA Environmental Justice Area of Exceedance census tract.
- How to apply
- Direct application: read the program guidance for your project type, register as a State eSupplier, and submit the pre-approval application; DNREC replies within 10 business days, and after installation you send paid invoices and the approval letter to [email protected].
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Up to $5,000 per single-port and $10,000 per dual-port charger; multi-family sites capped at $75,000
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3480;
Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EEIF)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Rebates for energy audits and efficient equipment in non-residential buildings.
Up to 60% of efficiency-related project cost, capped at $250,000 per address per calendar year; audits up to 50% of cost, max $5,000 (single-purpose) or $10,000 (comprehensive)
OpenRebateEnergy
The catch: Rebates are paid after the project is complete (DNREC says allow 8 to 12 weeks); skipping pre-approval means you carry the risk of ineligibility or of funds running out, and custom projects must be pre-approved.
Next deadline: Rolling · Year-round, rolling, first-come first-served subject to funding
Applicant tip: Cool Switch refrigerant grants and the State Energy Program Revolving Loan Fund can be stacked with an EEIF rebate on the same project.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Non-residential facilities in Delaware that pay the Public Utility Tax on their electric or natural gas bills; CHP systems must reach 60% annual efficiency and 1.0 MMBtu/hour of useful thermal output.
- How to apply
- Direct application: register in the Energy Efficiency Application Portal, submit for pre-approval before construction (prescriptive and audit applicants may instead apply within 30 days of the invoice date), register as a State eSupplier, and submit for final approval after completion.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Up to 60% of efficiency-related project cost, capped at $250,000 per address per calendar year; audits up to 50% of cost, max $5,000 (single-purpose) or $10,000 (comprehensive)
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3480;
Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund Capitalization Grant Program (EE RLF)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Federally capitalized revolving loan financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnergy
The catch: Terms, rates and eligible measures are not published on the page; federal IIJA funding typically carries federal requirements, so confirm terms with DNREC before planning around it.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Open; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Private and government entities with energy efficiency or renewable energy projects in Delaware; the page gives no further criteria.
- How to apply
- Direct application: download the Private Entity or Government Entity application from the EEIF Questions and Answers page and submit it to DNREC.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3480;
Green Energy Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Rebates toward the installed cost of solar, geothermal heat pump, solar water heating and wind systems for Delmarva Power customers.
Solar: $0.75-$0.90 per watt, up to $10,000 residential, $40,000 non-residential, $50,000 nonprofit; solar canopies and brownfield solar up to $100,000; geothermal up to $10,000-$50,000; wind up to $15,000-$50,000 (July 1, 2026 rates)
Confirm with agencyRebateEnergy
The catch: You must sign your Solar Renewable Energy Credits over to the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility, use a listed participating contractor, and keep the grant at or under 50% of project cost. High demand means approved grants may be queued for payment until funds are available.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Open rebate program (since 1999); apply through Green Grant Delaware after the energy audit; applications filed more than 12 months after installation is completed are ineligible
Applicant tip: If you also want an EEIF rebate, go through EEIF first; DNREC says that order is required to receive both.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delmarva Power customers installing an eligible renewable system with a GEP participating contractor after an acceptable energy audit; the solar shade analysis must show a TSRF of 70% or more and the total project cost must be $6.00 per watt or less.
- How to apply
- Direct application: through the Green Grant Delaware online application system, with required attachments, after completing an energy audit and selecting an approved participating contractor; register as a State of Delaware eSupplier before payment.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Nonprofit
- Award size
- Solar: $0.75-$0.90 per watt, up to $10,000 residential, $40,000 non-residential, $50,000 nonprofit; solar canopies and brownfield solar up to $100,000; geothermal up to $10,000-$50,000; wind up to $15,000-$50,000 (July 1, 2026 rates)
- Funding source
- Other
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Delmarva Power service territory in Delaware
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3480;
- Statutory authority
- Regulations for the Green Energy Fund, 7 DE Admin. Code 2103
Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act (HSCA) Brownfield Grants
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Reimbursement grants for investigating and cleaning up certified brownfields for redevelopment.
Varies — check official page
OpenGrantEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: Paid as reimbursement for eligible expenses listed in the Eligible Expenses Manual; work runs under a development agreement and must use HSCA-certified consultants and approved labs.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling; first come, first served from funds available each state fiscal year (July-June)
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Brownfield developers (purchasers acquiring potentially contaminated sites) with a DNREC brownfield certification and development agreement; current property owners are not eligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the Application for Brownfield Certification and Grant Funding to the DNREC Remediation Section, then negotiate a brownfields development agreement.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- State
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: DNREC Remediation Section; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-395-2600;
- Statutory authority
- 7 Del. C. Ch. 91 (Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act)
Hazardous Substance Site Cleanup Loan Program (HSSCLP)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Low-interest HSCA Fund loans to investigate and clean up hazardous substance releases.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: Repayable at a rate of at least 1%; requires an executed agreement with DNREC before applying.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Nonprofit organizations and businesses that are potentially responsible parties or brownfield developers with an executed agreement with the Department; project must be in Delaware.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the Hazardous Substance Site Cleanup Loan Application to the DNREC Remediation Section under the Procedures Governing Loans.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: DNREC Remediation Section; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-395-2600;
- Statutory authority
- 7 Del. C. § 9113 (Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act)
Land Conservation Loan Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Revolving-fund municipal loans to buy conservation easements or land that protects water quality.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnvironment & WaterParks & Recreation
The catch: Easements or purchases must be managed in perpetuity; repayment begins 30 days after settlement with semi-annual payments.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Annual; Environmental Finance determines demand each year from the fundable Project Priority List
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Municipalities with wastewater projects on the fundable portion of the WPCRF Project Priority List; land must have demonstrated water quality benefits.
- How to apply
- By invitation: Environmental Finance contacts eligible municipalities; DDA and/or DNREC land conservation staff then supply the program application and sponsorship agreement.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Chief of Administration, DNREC Environmental Finance; tel: 302-739-9941;
Low- to Moderate-Income Solar Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Free or reduced-cost rooftop solar for low- and moderate-income Delaware households.
Free system up to 4.0 kW (low income); 70% of cost for a system up to 6.0 kW (moderate income)
Confirm with agencyIn-kindMatch 30%EnergyDisadvantaged CommunitiesHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: Moderate-income households must apply through one of the three approved contractors and pay 30% of the cost; low-income households must first go through the Weatherization Assistance Program and its waiting list.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Pilot program; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Low-income households must meet Weatherization Assistance Program income guidelines; moderate income is defined by state area median income. Income is verified through tax returns, with a 4506-C form from each adult household member.
- How to apply
- Direct application: low-income households call the Energy Coordinating Agency (302-504-6111) to apply through the Weatherization Assistance Program; moderate-income households get free estimates from the approved solar contractors listed on the page, and the chosen contractor submits the application.
- Applicant types
- Individual
- Award size
- Free system up to 4.0 kW (low income); 70% of cost for a system up to 6.0 kW (moderate income)
- Match
- 30%
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- tel: 302-735-3480;
Non-Point Source Program Funding (Revolving Fund Loans)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Revolving-fund financing for best management practices that cut nonpoint source pollution.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnvironment & WaterAgriculture
The catch: Repayable loan financing, not a grant; the page gives no rates, terms or caps.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Not stated on the page; contact Environmental Finance
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Private landowners, homeowner associations, corporations, local and county governments, state agencies, nonprofits and National Estuary Programs implementing nonpoint source activities.
- How to apply
- Direct application: contact DNREC Environmental Finance (97 Commerce Way, Suite 106, Dover) to discuss financing; applications and guidance are on the Applications and Guidance page.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Public Agency, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- tel: 302-739-9941;
Nonpoint Source Section 319 Grant Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Federal Clean Water Act 319 subgrants to cut nutrient and sediment pollution in impaired waters.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedGrantMatch 40%Environment & WaterAgriculture
The catch: Recipient must cover 40% of total project cost as non-federal match; proposals need measurable environmental results and load-reduction estimates.
Next deadline: Expected: March 2027 · Annual; RFP posted and advertised in December of each calendar year (or at the program's discretion); FY2026 proposals were accepted through March 6, 2026
Applicant tip: If match is the limiting factor, ask the grant contact about state-funded non-federal match before you submit.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Public and private sponsors (see applicant types); priority for projects in watersheds with approved watershed management plans addressing nonpoint source impairments.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the Grant Application Form in response to the Request for Proposals; a committee scores proposals using the RFP metrics.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency, Nonprofit, Tribal Government, School District, Higher Education, Business, Individual, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal
- Match
- 40%
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Ben Coverdale, Nonpoint Source Program; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-608-5458;
- Statutory authority
- Clean Water Act Section 319
Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Trails Program (ORPT)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Matching grants for local park land acquisition, park and trail planning, and outdoor recreation facilities.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedGrantMatch 50%Parks & Recreation
The catch: The land must stay in public outdoor recreation use in perpetuity, the sponsor carries all operation and maintenance, and the sponsor must bring its own 25-50% match. Applications go through a review committee and the Parks and Recreation Council before the DNREC Secretary approves awards.
Next deadline: Expected: September 2027 · Annual; eligible sponsors file a pre-application at the start of each cycle and are then invited to submit full applications. 2026 full applications were due September 15, 2026, with grant agreements expected in the first quarter of 2027
Applicant tip: Pre-applications are only accepted at the start of a cycle; missing that window means waiting a year, even though no commitment is required at the pre-application stage.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware municipal and county governments and park districts. Sponsors must dedicate the park to public outdoor recreation in perpetuity and take on its operation and maintenance; indoor projects and park operations and maintenance are not eligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the ORPT pre-application when the annual cycle opens; DNREC reviews eligibility and readiness and invites eligible sponsors to file a full application by the stated due date.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- State
- Match
- 50%
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- name: Michael Tholstrup, Planning Manager / ORPT Administrator; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9215;
Phragmites Control Cost-Share Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Subsidized aerial herbicide treatment to restore wetland wildlife habitat overrun by invasive phragmites.
87.5% of treatment cost covered (landowner pays about $10 per acre)
Confirm with agencyIn-kindMatch 12.5%Environment & Water
The catch: You commit to three consecutive years of treatment and pay your 12.5% share each year; the per-acre price usually rises slightly because helicopter and chemical contracts are rebid annually. The Division will not spray near dense houses or landscaping and does not treat or fund ground application of phragmites the helicopter cannot reach.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Annual; first-come first-served with a mid-summer application deadline; aerial spraying August through mid-October
Applicant tip: Apply well before mid-summer; assistance is first-come first-served and spraying happens only in the late-summer window.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware landowners with between 5 and 200 acres of phragmites to be spray-treated who agree to three years of treatment. Drainage ditches and tax ditches are not eligible; larger acreages may be included if funding allows.
- How to apply
- Direct application: contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife biologist and complete the federal (EQIP) portion of the application at the county USDA service center (New Castle 302-832-3100, Kent 302-741-2600, Sussex 302-856-3990).
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- 87.5% of treatment cost covered (landowner pays about $10 per acre)
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Match
- 12.5%
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- name: James Joachimowski, Impoundment/Habitat Biologist; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-725-3638;
Project Planning Advances
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Advances that pay for the engineering reports a town needs to apply for a revolving-fund loan.
Up to $75,000 per year
OpenLoanEnvironment & Water
The catch: It is an advance: if the municipality does not apply for and execute a CWSRF loan it must repay DNREC, unless a public referendum on the project fails, in which case it is forgiven. Recipients must file a revolving fund Notice of Intent once the reports are done.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling; applications accepted any time during the year while the annual allocation lasts (one per state fiscal year)
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Municipalities; only PERs and EIDs are eligible (PERs for projects jointly funded with USDA qualify).
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the Project Planning Advances guidelines-and-application form to DNREC Environmental Finance at any time; staff approve and report it to the Water Infrastructure Advisory Council.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Up to $75,000 per year
- Funding source
- State
- Disbursement
- Advance(s)
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Michael Fleming, DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Scrap Tire Pile Cleanup Assistance
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
State funds to remove large, long-standing scrap tire piles.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyOtherEnvironment & Water
The catch: Only piles of more than 50 tires that existed by June 2006 qualify; the page gives no amounts or terms.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Owners of scrap tire piles of more than 50 tires in existence since at least the end of June 2006; illegal-dumping cleanups by counties, municipalities or community groups may also qualify.
- How to apply
- Direct application: call DNREC at 302-739-9403 to discuss the pile.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Public Agency, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- tel: 302-739-9403;
Septic Rehabilitation Grant Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Grants for low-income homeowners to replace failing septic systems or connect to sewer.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyGrantEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic DevelopmentDisadvantaged Communities
The catch: Owner-occupied primary residences only, within HUD income limits; everyone on the deed must sign and every household member must document income; requested information must arrive within 10 business days or the application is denied.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware owner-occupied primary residences with a failing system (including a cesspool, holding tank or outhouse) in use within the last 12 months; household income within HUD income guidelines; owners of additional properties, rentals and homes for sale are ineligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application: complete the Septic Rehabilitation Grant Application or the Central Sewer Connection Grant Application and send it to DNREC Environmental Finance; First State Community Action Agency can help.
- Applicant types
- Individual
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Jessica Velazquez, DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Septic System Rehabilitation Loans (SRLP and SEFO)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Low- or zero-interest loans for homeowners to replace failed or failing septic systems.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: All loans are secured by mortgage liens; SRLP needs monthly payments after closing, and SEFO becomes due in full when the property transfers.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Ongoing; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Homeowners who need to replace failed or failing septic systems; SEFO requires a prior SRLP denial.
- How to apply
- Pass-through: start with First State Community Action Agency's loan intake, which collects the application and documents and sends them to DNREC for processing.
- Applicant types
- Individual
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide; outreach focus on the Chesapeake and Inland Bays watersheds
- Contact
- name: Bruce Wright, First State Community Action Agency; tel: 302-856-7761;
State Energy Program Revolving Loan Fund
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Low-interest loans for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, alone or alongside EEIF and Cool Switch rebates.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnergy
The catch: The application asks for collateral equal to 100% of the loan amount, guarantor information and financial statements.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Open; no application window stated
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware entities pursuing a qualifying energy project; Cool Switch guidance says applicants need an energy audit documenting the proposed measures and their energy savings.
- How to apply
- Direct application: complete the Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy Revolving Loan Fund Application linked from the EEIF page and return it to DNREC Environmental Finance.
- Applicant types
- Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, School District, Higher Education, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- tel: 302-739-9941;
Surface Water Matching Planning Grants
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Matching grants to plan stormwater, stream and wetland projects in impaired watersheds.
Up to $50,000 per project; up to $100,000 per fiscal year
Confirm with agencyGrantMatch 50%Environment & WaterDisaster Prevention & Relief
The catch: Cash match must be available at application; up to 10% of the award may go to administration; joint applications among governments get special consideration.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Competitive rounds; FY2027 proposals were due August 31, 2026 (awards October 2026); informational workshop held each January; no next round posted
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Delaware counties, municipalities, conservation districts or estuary programs that are eligible for SRF funding and have the match in hand at application.
- How to apply
- Direct application: email the proposal (10 MB maximum) to [email protected] during an open round; the Water Infrastructure Advisory Council recommends awards.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Up to $50,000 per project; up to $100,000 per fiscal year
- Funding source
- State
- Match
- 50%
- Geography
- Statewide
- Submit via
- true
- Contact
- name: Michael Fleming, DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Wastewater Matching Planning Grants
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Matching grants for wastewater planning studies that prepare projects for revolving-fund loans.
Up to $50,000
OpenGrantMatch 50%Environment & Water
The catch: Reimbursement only after costs are incurred and paid, at half the eligible cost; studies must deliver a final report before final disbursement, and design of a CWSRF project is not eligible.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling; applications accepted any time, funding permitting; informational workshop each January
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Municipal and county government wastewater utilities.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit the guidelines-and-application form to DNREC Environmental Finance.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Up to $50,000
- Funding source
- State
- Match
- 50%
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Michael Fleming, DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund: Green Infrastructure Loans
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Revolving-fund loans for green infrastructure, water and energy efficiency, and innovative water projects.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedLoanEnvironment & WaterEnergy
The catch: Repayable loan awarded only through the Priority List; private applicants are limited to estuary projects.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · Annual Project Priority List: NOIs invited each January with a second summer invitation (2026 cycle NOIs due February 18, 2026)
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Any state or municipal government agency or program, or a private entity for estuary projects only; projects must meet the definitions in EPA's 2010 Green Project Reserve guidance.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit a Notice of Intent to DNREC Environmental Finance; loans are awarded through the Project Priority List process.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency, Business, Nonprofit
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Greg Pope, P.E., DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund: Private Projects that Support Estuary Programs
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Revolving-fund loans for privately owned projects that improve water quality in the Delaware Bay and Inland Bays estuaries.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedLoanEnvironment & Water
The catch: Only capital costs are eligible, and only the portion of a project that protects estuary water quality can be financed; projects must be consistent with the CCMP.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · Annual Project Priority List: NOIs invited each January with a second summer invitation (2026 cycle NOIs due February 18, 2026)
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Privately owned water quality improvement projects in the Delaware Bay or Inland Bays watersheds that are sanctioned by the relevant CCMP; the Chesapeake Bay watershed (about one-third of the state) is ineligible for privately owned wastewater treatment assistance.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit a Notice of Intent; loans are awarded through the Project Priority List process, then a private/nonprofit entity loan application.
- Applicant types
- Individual, Business, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Delaware Bay and Inland Bays watersheds (not the Chesapeake Bay watershed)
- Contact
- name: Greg Pope, P.E., DNREC Environmental Finance; tel: 302-739-9941;
- Statutory authority
- Clean Water Act Section 320
Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund: Publicly Owned Wastewater Treatment Project Loans
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Below-market loans to build, repair and upgrade municipal wastewater facilities.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedLoanEnvironment & WaterHousing, Community and Economic Development
The catch: It is a loan, not a grant: only projects ranked onto the fundable part of the Priority List after a Water Infrastructure Advisory Council public hearing are invited to apply, and the application needs a full Preliminary Engineering Report and Environmental Information Document within four to six months of the Intended Use Plan.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · Annual Project Priority List: Notices of Intent invited each January (2026 cycle NOIs due February 18, 2026), with a second NOI invitation each summer; fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30
Applicant tip: If you lack the engineering report, DNREC's Project Planning Advances (up to $75,000 a year) pay for the PER and EID needed to get onto the list.
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Owners/operators of publicly owned wastewater treatment facilities; projects must meet the EPA description for Section 212 (centralized wastewater) projects and be on the fundable portion of the Project Priority List.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit a Notice of Intent when DNREC Environmental Finance invites them (January, and again in summer); projects on the fundable portion of the adopted Project Priority List are invited to file the governmental-entity loan application with a Preliminary Engineering Report and Environmental Information Document.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Disbursement
- Advances & Reimbursement(s)
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Greg Pope, P.E., DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
- Statutory authority
- 29 Del. C. § 8003(12); 67 Del. Laws c. 291
Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund: Stormwater Infrastructure Loans
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Below-market loans for stormwater projects with a water quality benefit.
Varies — check official page
ExpectedLoanEnvironment & WaterDisaster Prevention & Relief
The catch: Repayable loan; projects over $250,000 must rank onto the Project Priority List before an application is invited, and projects are ranked on environmental benefit.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · Annual Project Priority List: NOI solicitation begins each January, with a second solicitation in July/August (2026 cycle NOIs due February 18, 2026)
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Stormwater projects that show a water quality benefit and qualify as municipal (212), nonpoint source (319) and/or green infrastructure projects. Projects over $250,000 must go through the Project Priority List process.
- How to apply
- Direct application: submit a Notice of Intent during the January or July/August solicitation; projects on the fundable portion of the Project Priority List are contacted to file a loan application.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency, Nonprofit, Business, Other Legal Entity
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- name: Greg Pope, P.E., DNREC Environmental Finance; email: [email protected]; tel: 302-739-9941;
Water Quality Improvement Loan Program
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Revolving-fund loans that let towns pair a wastewater loan with water quality improvement projects.
Varies — check official page
Confirm with agencyLoanEnvironment & Water
The catch: Repayment begins 30 days after loan settlement with semi-annual debt service payments; the improvement must be managed for its life.
Next deadline: Varies — check official page · Annual; Environmental Finance sizes demand each year from the fundable Project Priority List and contacts eligible municipalities
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Municipalities with wastewater projects on the fundable portion of the WPCRF Project Priority List; projects must show a demonstrated water quality benefit.
- How to apply
- By invitation: Environmental Finance contacts municipalities whose wastewater projects are on the fundable Priority List; interested towns then work with Water Quality Improvement Loan staff on the application and a contractual agreement with the Division of Watershed Stewardship.
- Applicant types
- Public Agency
- Award size
- Varies — check official page
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Geography
- Statewide
- Contact
- tel: 302-739-9941;
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Free weatherization and energy-efficiency improvements for low-income Delaware households.
Free weatherization services (no cash award)
OpenIn-kindNo matchEnergyHousing, Community and Economic DevelopmentDisadvantaged Communities
The catch: Not all eligible applicants are served in a program year, and anyone not served within 12 months must reapply. It is not a home repair program: it does not routinely replace windows, doors or furnaces or service air conditioners, and an adult must be home for every contractor visit.
Next deadline: Rolling · Year-round; eligible applicants join a waiting list prioritized by need, age and special needs of residents, and annual funding levels
Eligibility, how to apply, match, contact
- Eligibility
- Households at or below the program income limits by household size (for example $31,920 for one person and $66,000 for four; add $11,360 per person above eight).
- How to apply
- Direct application: call the Energy Coordinating Agency, the statewide WAP agency under contract to DNREC, at 302-504-6111 to set up an appointment, with the required income documentation.
- Applicant types
- Individual
- Award size
- Free weatherization services (no cash award)
- Funding source
- Federal and State
- Match
- Not Required
- Geography
- Statewide (Delaware)
- Contact
- email: [email protected]; tel: 302-735-3480;
