Applications are now open for the DOE’s Building Upgrades Inspiring Local Transformation (BUILT Nonprofits) grant. This $2 million funding opportunity from the Renew America’s Nonprofits Program, made possible through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to support community-based nonprofit organizations in enhancing building energy infrastructure.

BUILT Nonprofits will provide awards of up to $100,000 to eligible nonprofits for energy efficiency equipment designed to decrease energy consumption, curtail carbon emissions, and yield both immediate and sustained energy cost savings. With energy costs being the second-highest operational expense for nonprofits, even minor improvements in energy efficiency can result in substantial savings that can then be redirected to support the vital community services these organizations provide. For nonprofits operating in sectors like low-income housing, healthcare and emergency response, refugee support and domestic violence, and faith-based organizations, every dollar saved through energy efficiency upgrades can support mission-critical work in communities across the country.

Through this competitive funding opportunity, eligible nonprofits apply to receive funding for energy improvement projects, including HVAC upgrades, building insulation, lighting improvements, and the installation of energy-efficient appliances and equipment.

Nonprofit applicants must be a 501(c)(3) organization, own and operate their own building, be a domestic entity, be capable of providing a 20% cost share, and upload submissions by November 12, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Compelling applications will present a clear plan for proposed energy upgrades, provide sufficient justification for the upgrade, and outline how their community will benefit from anticipated energy savings.