US Government's Green Tech Grants
The federal government funds green tech projects with grants from the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Labor, among others. Two such grant programs are focused on the development of green technology, particularly in the area of renewable energy made from agricultural products. Additional grant funding is available to help train workers in the emerging field of green technology as well as educate the public about the tax incentives or potential benefits to using green technology.
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Biomass Research and Development Initiative Competitive Grants Program
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The Department of Agriculture provides grant funding for green tech projects in biomass energy development. The Biomass Research and Development Initiative awards money on a competitive basis to fund research, development and demonstration of technology that harnesses energy from plant matter. National laboratories, research institutions, nonprofits and businesses are all eligible to apply for this grant opportunity. The Department of Agriculture requires more matching funds -- the portion of the project financed by the applicant -- for commercial projects than for nonprofit and academic projects.
New ERA Rural Technology Competitive Grants Program
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The Department of Agriculture also awards grants for technology development and workforce development in agriculture-based renewable energy. Like the Biomass Research and Development Initiative, funding through the New ERA Rural Technology grant program may be used to fund research into green technologies such as biodiesel and ethanol. New ERA Rural Technology grants are also available for research into pulp and paper manufacturing. Eligible applicants include nonprofit or public community colleges and research institutes in advanced technology. Unlike the BRDI, no matching funds are required for this program.
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Green Jobs Innovation Fund Grants
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In addition to research projects, grant funding is available for training and workforce development programs. The Green Jobs Innovation Fund grant from the Department of Labor supports projects that help prepare workers to work in "green jobs" -- careers that involve work with green technology such as renewable energy, efficiency improvements and sustainable agriculture. All of the funds awarded through this grant must be used to train workers in these areas. Eligible applicants include state and local employment agencies as well as private non-profits that do workforce training.
Biodiesel Fuel Education Program
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The Biodiesel Fuel Education Program is a funding opportunity for public education projects as well. But instead of focusing on workforce development, this program is targeted toward building awareness among businesses and consumers about existing green technology. The Biodiesel Fuel Education Program grant is available to nonprofits and higher education institutions that engage in extension work and outreach that educates people about the potential benefits of biodiesel. Projects funded by this grant also may help inform the public about tax incentives provided by the federal government for biodiesel.
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References
- Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: Biomass Research and Development Initiative Competitive Grants Program
- Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: New ERA Rural Technology Competitive Grants Program
- Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: Green Jobs Innovation Fund Grants
- Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: Biodiesel Fuel Education Program
Resources
- Photo Credit GRAIN STORAGE AERIAL image by BILLY WELLBORN from Fotolia.com
