Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) Program

The following project type is eligible for SWIFR funding: 

• Planning Grant for Developing a Local Materials Management Plan

For the full scope and detailed requirements of the Local Materials Management Plan, please refer to page 10 of the state materials management plan.

Eligible Funding Cost

Funding is available for expenses related to the development of local materials management plan. Eligible planning projects consist of all costs associated with professional fees, data gathering, study, analysis, supplies and preparation of plans and the identification of actions to implement such plans including public outreach and community engagement materials.

Ineligible Costs

The following items’ expenses will not be funded through the 2027 SWIFR Program funding:

• Equipment Costs
• Construction Costs
• Ongoing program costs such as salaries, recycling contracts, and vehicle maintenance.
• Personnel expenses, except where contracted as professional fees.
• Computer hardware and software.
• Contractor labor, set-up, and preparation charges.
• Food, beverages, and party supplies.
• Cash payments such as gift cards.
• Grant administration.
• Recycling collection vehicles, such as a curbside recycling truck

Applicants are eligible to receive up to $20,000 to support the development of a materials management plan. Local funds are not required but IDEM strongly recommends leveraging additional funds.

Proposals must be submitted online through Access.gov no later than Monday, September 14, 2026. Technical Assistance will be available until 4:00 p.m. ET on the deadline day. Incomplete proposals or proposals submitted after the deadline will not be considered for funding.

The following documents must be included with this application for it to be considered complete. 

• Copies of quotes for all applicable professional services to be procured for completion of the project.
• Copy of organization’s most recent financial statement demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
• Clerk or Financial Officer Letter outlining the match funding or supplementary financial support to be used, if applicable. 
• Letter of support from the Executive Director confirming commitment to plan implementation and outlining the timeline for future updates.
• Clearly labeled, color maps of the project area, including map markers, labels, legends, and other necessary elements identifying key locations and features
• Detailed Budget Narrative  
• Budget Sheet

The SWIFR Program evaluates applications based on the responses submitted in the application questionnaire and the completeness of all required documents.

Review factors include:

• Adherence to all application guidelines, deadlines, and formatting requirements
• Sustainability of the project without future grant funding
• Potential to increase waste diversion
• Applicant’s past performance in grant administration, project management, and environmental compliance, where applicable
• Alignment with requirements in the Materials Management Plan Guidance
• Demonstrated financial need
• Ability of the project to meet its stated goals and serve as a model for similar efforts
• Positive economic and environmental impacts at the local, regional, or statewide level
• Overall availability of program funds
• Confirmation that the project can begin upon grant execution and be completed within 18 months

IDEM awards funding on a first‑come, first‑served basis, with priority given to solid waste management districts.

Applications Accepted: August 3rd, 2026- September 14th, 2026,  

Grant Award Notifications Sent: Applicants will be notified of their application status by December 7th, 2026. 

IDEM Award Announcement: December 15th, 2026,