Community Waste Reduction Grant (CWRG) | SWACO

The 2027 Community Waste Reduction Grant application period is now OPEN! 

Applications are due Friday, August 7, 2026. 

SWACO provides grant funding for projects in Central Ohio that support waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, food donation and diversion education efforts. 

Please read through the Grant Application Information before starting an application. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Kristi Higginbotham, SWACO Grant Programs Administrator, at grants@swaco.org or 614-871-5100 to discuss project ideas, eligibility, timelines and funding requirements.

Grant Eligibility and Funding Information

• Projects must take place within SWACO’s jurisdiction.
• Funding supports new or expanded waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, food donation and diversion education projects.
• Grant awards range from $500 – $50,000 and require a 20% cash match.
• Half-upfront funding is available upon request within the application.
• Purchases made before a grant agreement is executed are not eligible for reimbursement.
• *Awarded projects must be completed by December 31, 2027. 

*Recipients must track and document project impacts, including waste reduction and diversion results. A final report detailing project outcomes, challenges and successes is required before final reimbursement is issued.