The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service (DEACS) has opened applications for the Helene Recovery Recycling Infrastructure (HRRI) Grant Program. The initiative is aimed at helping local governments in western North Carolina rebuild recycling and waste reduction systems that were damaged by Hurricane Helene.
The HRRI program is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through the American Relief Act of 2025, with a total of $25 million available over several phases. Local governments can apply for grants up to $5 million per project, and there is no requirement for matching funds from applicants.
“Hurricane Helene created mountains of debris and damaged recycling and waste collection infrastructure,” said DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. “These grants will help local governments rebuild and expand recycling and composting systems, which will prolong the life of landfills and create jobs. We appreciate EPA for making the funds available as quickly as possible.”
Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, councils of governments, and solid waste authorities located within FEMA-declared disaster areas affected by Hurricane Helene (DR-4827). Projects that may qualify for funding include construction or improvement of recycling or composting facilities, development of regional collection systems, upgrades to convenience centers or household hazardous waste programs, purchase of recycling trucks or containers, as well as related feasibility studies or education efforts.
The application period for Phase 1 is open until January 30, 2026. Projects can run for up to three years. Funding will be distributed on a reimbursement basis; salaries, administrative costs, or contracted collection services are not eligible expenses.
Proposals should be submitted electronically to Matt James at matt.james@deq.nc.gov in Word or PDF format. Early awards are possible as proposals are accepted on a rolling basis until the deadline. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact DEACS staff prior to applying to discuss eligibility.
Further information about the grant program and application process can be found at https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/environmental-assistance-and-customer-service/recycling-and-materials-management/programs-offered/grants-local-governments/helene-recovery-recycling-infrastructure-grants
