IDEM announces grants to improve local waste management

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 12:13 PM

By Staff report

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is offering grants to help communities strengthen how they manage recycled and waste materials.

The funding, available through the U.S. EPA's Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grant program, supports communities improve how they manage recyclable materials, strengthen local recycling systems, and upgrade waste management infrastructure.

Counties, municipalities and solid waste management districts in Indiana may apply for SWIFR grants of up to $20,000. The SWIFR Program will accept applications from Aug. 3 to Sept. 14, 2026.

Grant funding may be used to develop or update a local materials management plan that supports resource recovery and advances recycling. Local plans should assess current conditions and identify opportunities to:

Reduce waste

Expand recycling infrastructure

Support resource recovery

Promote sustainable materials use

Strengthen public engagement

Eligible expenses include professional services, data collection, studies, analyses, supplies, plan development, and identifying implementation steps such as public outreach and community engagement materials.

Additional information is available on IDEM's Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) Program webpage. Interested applicants can call 800-451-6027 or email swifr@idem.IN.gov for technical assistance.

Final funding determinations will be made in December 2026.