Recycling Efficiency Incentive Grants

(s. 287.235, Wis. Stats. and ch. NR 549, Wis. Admin. Code.)

This grant program is currently CLOSED to new applicants.

Please note - The 2009-2011 Biennial Budget did not provide funding for the Recycling Efficiency Incentive Grant for calendar years 2010 or 2011. Please monitor this website for updates on the future of this grant program as they become available.

Financial assistance is available to Responsible Units that have demonstrated recycling program efficiency. A Responsible Unit's recycling program must be designated "effective" (as defined in s. NR 544.04, Wis. Admin. Code) by the DNR.

Applicants that have undertaken any of the following efficiency measures may receive funding (see below for the dates within which the efficiency must have occurred):

  • Consolidation (per ch. 66 Wis Stats.): a merger of at least two responsible units into a single responsible unit. Responsible Unit (as defined in s. 287.09 Wis Stats).
  • Entering into at least one cooperative agreement with at least one other Responsible Unit where one or more of the following efficiencies have been achieved:
    • Collection and transportation of recyclables
    • Sorting of recyclables at a materials recovery facility
    • Comprehensive program planning
    • Educational efforts about recycling

Important: If you're applying for both a Recycling Grant to Responsible Units (also called the "basic grant") and an REI grant, you may need to submit an updated authorized resolution if your current one on file with the DNR Central Office does not mention chs. NR 542, NR 544, and NR 549. See a sample. The authorizing resolution designates a representative to submit bothe applications and handle all grant actions.

All eligible Responsible Units will receive a per capita portion of available funds. The grant award cannot exceed the difference between the Responsible Unit's net eligible recycling costs incurred two years previously and the amount of the current Responsible Unit grant award.

For a comprehensive list of eligible costs covered by this program, please refer to Eligible/Ineligible Costs for Recycling Grants to Responsible Units

Caution to Project Sponsors - Protect Confidential Data

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) takes seriously its responsibility to protect all confidential data that are collected as the DNR administers its programs. For DNR grant programs, “confidential data” typically includes: