$3.7 million funding available for recycling, waste diversion projects in Shelby, surrounding counties

Eligible waste diversion and recycling projects are restricted to Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, Shelby, Johnson, Morgan, Hendricks, and Boone counties.

The deadline for Central Indiana businesses to submit proposals for up to $3.7 million in funding to implement Central Indiana Waste Diversion Program (CIWDP) projects is October 1.

Funding for successful applicant projects is through the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s (IDEM) Recycling Market Development Program. Eligible waste diversion and recycling projects are restricted to Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, Shelby, Johnson, Morgan, Hendricks, and Boone counties, and implemented by private sector entities. Proposed projects must demonstrate waste diversion from landfills and incinerators and a dedicated Indiana-based market for commercial use of the material.

“IDEM is pleased to support efforts to improve Central Indiana's recycling infrastructure, including diverting recyclable materials from waste streams for the purpose of commercial reuses,” said IDEM Commissioner Brian Rockensuess. “The Central Indiana Waste Diversion Project funding will create circular economy benefits, including improved supply chains, market development, job growth, and natural resource conservation.”

Applications should demonstrate an understanding of the infrastructure, supply chain, and changing economy for recyclers and seek solutions where organizations and communities can most effectively use monies to increase waste diversion in Central Indiana. Funding criteria includes the amount and type of waste diverted from landfills through the project and the potential for productive reuse of the diverted waste, with priority given to the largest amount of waste diversion potential through the project.

The Recycling Market Development Board will make final funding determinations in early Spring 2025.

To apply, visit recycle.IN.gov. For additional information about the Recycling Market Development Program, call 800-988-7901. 

IDEM will host an information session on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 2 p.m. to discuss this funding opportunity. The webinar will provide a summary of the CIWDP, including timeline, requirements, and application guidance. Interested entities with potential waste diversion and recycling projects that focus on Central Indiana are invited to attend. 

Register to learn more at: idem.IN.gov/recycle/central-indiana-waste-diversion-pilot-project .

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