Questions and Answers: Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program (FY 2024–25 and 2025–26)

The question-and-answer period is now closed for this grant cycle. All questions and answers are posted on this site.

Questions about the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program grant application are accepted in writing only, no later than August 13, 2024. Similar or related questions may be grouped together or reworded for clarity and responded to as one question.

All questions and answers will be posted during the application period and are subject to updates.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to check this website for the latest information regarding this grant cycle.

General | Eligibility | Materials | Funding | Application

General

  1. Within the Grant Term Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions, what is the difference between the RBC36 FY 2024–25 and RBC37 FY 2025–26?

The Grant Term begins on the date of the Notice to Proceed, which is issued after the grant cycle is awarded and the grant agreement has been executed.  The FY 2025–26 grant agreement cannot be issued until after the FY 2025–26 state budget has been passed.  The Grant Term ends on April 1, 2027 (RBC36 FY 2024–25) or April 4, 2028 (RBC37 FY 2025–26) and all eligible program costs must be incurred by this date.  Refer to the Grant Term section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

 

  1. What is the difference between the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program and the City/County Payment Program?

The Grant Program provides opportunities to California local government agencies, cities, counties, regional programs, public colleges and universities, public school districts, non-profit organizations, and qualifying Indian Tribes to promote increased recycling of beverage containers throughout California and reduce the beverage container litter in the waste stream.  The Grant Program is a competitive process in which applications are evaluated and scored by a CalRecycle review panel based on the approved Scoring Criteria for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program, FYs 2024–25 and 2025–26.  Refer to the Beverage Container Recycling Grants homepage and Application Guidelines and Instructions.

The City/County Payment Program is an entitlement program providing funding for eligible cities and counties specifically for beverage container recycling and litter cleanup activities.  For more information regarding the City/County Payment Program, refer to the Beverage Container Recycling City/County Payment Program Homepage.

 

  1. How do I identify if my community is in a Disadvantaged Community?

Use the California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool (CalEnviroScreen 4.0) to identify the disadvantaged community your project would benefit.

 

  1. Will this new grant opportunity eliminate recycling education related to commingled recycling systems limitations to ensure jurisdictions have access to adequate funds to provide for recycling receptacles in commingled systems?

CalRecycle will only fund the proportionate cost directly related to CRV.

 

  1. Does the Beverage Container Recycling Grant pertain only to California Refund Value beverage containers—aluminum, glass, plastic, bi-metal, boxes, bladders or pouches containing wine, distilled spirits, wine coolers, and distilled spirit coolers?

Yes. Funding for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant must have a direct connection to the California Redemption Value (CRV) of beverage containers and the overall program. If non-CRV items are included in the grant, they are subject to proportional cost. For example: a three-bin system with composting, paper, and CRV recycling, can only be funded at one third the cost. A mixed recycling bin will be funded proportionately based on the CRV content of materials collected.

 

  1. Why are non-profit private K–12 schools registered with the federal government under 501(c)3, (c)6, or (c)10 of the Internal Revenue Code not eligible for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant? This grant would help us teach our students about the importance of recycling.

CalRecycle does not allow funding for non-profit private K–12 schools. Refer to the Eligible Applicants Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

 

  1. Can a jurisdiction utilize funds from the City/County Payment Program to cover the eligible costs that are not covered by the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program?

Yes. City/County Payment Program funds may be utilized to cover eligible expenditures only if the same expense is not invoiced under both Programs. Funding for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant must have a direct connection to the California Redemption Value (CRV) of beverage containers and the overall program.

 

  1. I am researching/planning for a recycling business in Yucca Valley, CA. I would like to request as much information as available regarding the grant programs and projects.

Information pertaining to the Beverage Container Recycling Grant (Competitive) can be found on the Notice of Funds Available webpage. Refer to the Notice of Funds Available webpage for more information.

 

  1. To confirm, is the information provided in the CA Grants Portal listing for this program (also linked below for reference) up-to-date, or should applicants refer to CalRecycle’s page for the most up-to-date guidelines?
    Program page: https://calrecycle.ca.gov/bevcontainer/grants/bevcontainer/fy2024-26/
    CA Grants Portal listing: https://www.grants.ca.gov/grants/beverage-container-recycling-grant-program-fy-2024-25-and-2025-26/

Yes. The information listed provided in the California Grants Portal website and the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program webpage on the CalRecycle website are both up to date. You may refer to one or both webpages for current information on Program guidelines and information.

 

  1. How long will the program be available for?

The application due date for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant is September 24, 2024. The Grant Term ends on April 1, 2027 (RBC36 FY 2024–25) or April 4, 2028 (RBC37 FY 2025–26) and all eligible program costs must be incurred by these dates.  Refer to the Grant Term section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

 

  1. Do all the noted items: recycling bins, receptacle liners, trash compactors, and balers qualify for the grant?

No. Trash compactors are an ineligible expenditure under the Program. Purchase of equipment related to beverage container recycling is an eligible cost. For detailed information, refer to the Eligible and Ineligible Costs sections of the Procedures and Requirements document of your cycle found on the Notice of Funds Available webpage.

 

  1. Do we need to apply for the grant first before items can be purchased?

The Grant Term begins on the date of the Notice to Proceed, which is issued after the grant cycle is awarded and the grant agreement has been executed.  All expenditures cannot be incurred prior to the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Refer to the Grant Term section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

 

  1. What is the turnaround time between the application submission, its approval and the reimbursement?

Applications will be reviewed after the application due date. If approved, CalRecycle will conditionally award grants in March 2025 (RBC36 FY 2024–25) and April 2025
(RBC37 FY 2025-26). Expenditures cannot be incurred prior to the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Refer to the Grant Term section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

 

  1. Are K-12 school districts or California State University required to develop, adopt and implement an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing and Practices (EPPP) Policy?

Yes. All applicants are required to develop, adopt and implement an EPPP for their organizations. Additional EPPP Policy resources may be found on the CalRecycle Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) webpage.

Eligibility

  1. Are Permanent Recycling Centers and CRV drop off locations eligible under this grant? 

Private, for-profit businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply for the Grant Program. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. We are a manufacturer of recycling and waste containers, and we would like to know if any company in California can apply for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant? Are there parameters or guidelines to whom can apply? Please provide any information on organizations that qualify for a Beverage Container Recycling Grant.

Private businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant. However, private businesses and individuals may collaborate with any eligible applicant, as identified in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Are Zero Waste Programs an eligible expense?

Only the CRV Beverage Container Recycling component of a Zero Waste Program is an eligible expense.

  1. Are mixed recycling bins an eligible expense?

Only the CRV beverage container recycling component is an eligible expense. A proportionate cost will be applied to mixed recycling bins.

  1. Is bin signage an eligible expense?

Yes. Bin signage is an eligible expense. A proportionate cost must be applied if the signage/bin is not 100% CRV beverage container material.

  1. Are cluster bins an eligible expense?

a. Combination cluster bins that are attached and collect both CRV and landfill materials are 100% eligible.
b. Cluster bins that combine CRV with any other type of collection are subject to a proportionate cost rate (i.e., Composting, Landfill, and CRV would be funded at two thirds proportionate rate.).

  1. Are Operators eligible to collect for CRV Collection Programs?

Proposed programs to collect CRV beverage container recycling may need to be certified by CalRecycle to operate. Please see our Beverage Container Recycling Programs Defined web page for specific requirements.

  1. What type of expenditures are eligible and ineligible under the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program?

Purchase of equipment related to beverage container recycling is an eligible cost. For detailed information, refer to the Eligible and Ineligible Costs sections of the Procedures and Requirements of your cycle.

  1. Does this grant support the expansion/relocation of CRV buyback collection facilities and/or kiosks, which have significantly decreased in recent years?

No. Start-up costs for Recycling Centers are not eligible.

  1. Why are commercial projects ineligible for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program?

Commercial projects are typically managed by private entities and are therefore ineligible for the Program. A collaborative effort to implement a beverage container recycling project between a local jurisdiction and multi-family residential dwellings (five units or more) is an eligible project. Refer to Eligible Projects/Products Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Can a jurisdiction use the Beverage Container Recycling Grant funds to purchase new recycling carts for residents?

Jurisdictions can utilize grant funds to purchase beverage container recycling carts for residents. If beverage container recycling carts are utilized for mixed materials, it will be funded proportionately based on the CRV materials collected. However, if the beverage container recycling carts are utilized for the collection of CRV materials only, it will be funded at 100 percent. Refer to the Eligible Costs Section of the Procedures and Requirements.

  1. Can grant funds be used to purchase water refill stations for a jurisdiction?

Yes. Purchase of water refill stations, including the installation, or replacement of current infrastructure, plumbing, maintenance, additional attachments or modifications, or related educational and outreach activities/materials promoting water refill stations, are eligible costs. Refer to the Eligible Costs Section of the Procedures and Requirements.

  1. How is a proportionate cost/rate methodology determined prior to purchasing mixed recycling bins? Will the grantee be required to return grant funds to CalRecycle if it is determined that less California Redemption Value (CRV) is collected than what was anticipated?

A proportionate cost/rate methodology may be determined by the grantee conducting a waste characterization audit. The audit may identify the tonnage of CRV beverage containers being collected and assist in determining the number of mixed recycling bins that are required for the grant project. Refer to Eligible Costs Section of the Procedures and Requirements.
No. Grant funds will not be returned to CalRecycle. Payments to a grantee for eligible grant expenditures are made on a reimbursement basis only and for those materials and services specified in the approved grant application. Refer to Grant Payment Information Section of the Procedures and Requirements.

  1. Our city would like to install 10 to 20 BigBelly Kiosks to promote beverage container recycling. Are dual BigBelly Kiosks an eligible expense?

Yes. The dual BigBelly Kiosks that are permanently attached together to include landfill and California Redemption Value (CRV) beverage containers are 100% eligible.

  1. I am in the process of starting a recycling collection business, do I meet the eligibility criteria for the grant? Are there specific legal or structural requirements I should be aware of to qualify?

Private businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant. However, private businesses and individuals may collaborate with any eligible applicant, as identified in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. My business model focuses on providing curbside recycling collection services and educational outreach to increase community awareness about recycling. Do these project types align with the funding priorities of the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program?

Private businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant. However, private businesses and individuals may collaborate with any eligible applicant, as identified in the Application Guidelines and Instructions. Curbside Residential Program locations excluding single stream are an eligible project under the Program. Refer to the Eligible Projects/Products section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. What level of detail is required when describing the project site? We have potential project sites at our main campus (at multiple buildings, on multiple floors) and at off-campus sites (also at multiple buildings and multiple floors).

Applicants should describe the project site(s) with detailed information that is pertinent to the project. This should include location, geographic area, and the target audience as requested in the Narrative Proposal.

  1. Eligible Applicants include Qualifying Tribal Entities and Joint Powers Authorities, how do I determine if a Tribe qualifies? Please explain the Joint Powers Authorities category and provide an example?

A “Qualifying Tribal Entity” is defined as an Indian tribe, band, nation or other organized group or community, residing within the borders of California, which:

  1. Is recognized for special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of the status of its members as Indians; or
  2. Can establish that it is a government entity and meets the criteria of the grant program.

“Joint Powers Authority” (JPA) means two or more public agencies jointly exercising any power held in common, if authorized by their legislative or other governing bodies, as outlined in the California Government Code (CGC) sections 6500 et seq.  Refer to the Joint Powers Authority Application Requirements section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Our intent is to apply for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program to purchase full capture system devices. These devices are installed in storm catch basins to capture trash, bottles, bags, plastics, and other miscellaneous items, preventing them from flowing through the storm drain system into local waters. Based on this information, would this project be eligible?

No. Capture system devices are not eligible under the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program.

  1. Is eligibility for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program limited to new programs, or does it also apply to existing collection programs?

No. CalRecycle is seeking projects that either implement new programs or enhance existing ones. Both new and existing programs are eligible. Refer to the Eligible Projects/Products Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Are applicants who were awarded the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program for Fiscal Years (FYs) 2022-23 and FY 2024-25 eligible to apply?

No. Applicants that were awarded in the last two fiscal years (FY 2022-23 and FY 2023-24) from the eligible applicant pool will be excluded for eligibility. Refer to the Eligible Applicants Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

Funding

  1. Are there any grants available for startup costs for a Recycling Center Business or nonprofit collection/drop-off program in a convenience zone?

No. Costs for establishing a recycling center are not eligible for reimbursement under the current grant program. However, grant funds may be utilized for infrastructure such as, beverage container recycling bins, beverage container recycling education and outreach, and personnel costs in the existing recycling center. Refer to the Eligible and Ineligible Costs sections in the Procedures and Requirements.

  1. What kind of funds are available?

Refer to Available Funds section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

Both cycles will be awarded using information submitted in the RBC 36 application. RBC36 (FY 2024–25) will be awarded in March of 2025 and RBC37 (FY 2025–26) will be awarded in April of 2025. Only one submitted application will be used to consider funding for the combined grant cycles. The allocation is $1,500,000 for each fiscal year, totaling $3,000,000. A minimum grant award of $75,000 and a maximum grant award of $275,000 apply to each cycle. An applicant cannot receive grants in both cycles.

  1. Is there a cap on Personnel costs?

Yes. Personnel costs directly related to the start-up/implementation of the project are capped at 25 percent of the total grant award (recycling coordinator, salaries/wages for those directly involved with the project, e.g., students, consultants, etc.). Refer to the Eligible Costs Section of the Procedures and Requirements.

  1. What factors should I consider when determining the appropriate amount to request? Additionally, are there any resources or support services available through CalRecycle to assist first-time applicants with the grant application process?

Applicants should consider the proposed project costs and why it is needed. All costs associated with all activities must be necessary to complete the project.

CalRecycle staff is available to assist if you are unable to access the Grant Management System (GMS) or need assistance, please send an email to grantassistance@calrecycle.ca.gov.

  1. Can a portion of the grant funding be used for a new facility permit?

No. Permit and other startup costs for establishing a recycling center are ineligible under the Program. For detailed information, refer to the Ineligible Costs sections of the Procedures and Requirements of your cycle found on the Notice of Funds Available webpage.

  1. Can a single entity request funds for both water refill stations and receptacles (e.g., cluster bins and beverage container recycling receptacles) in the same application if the total request remains under the $275,000 maximum award limit?

Yes. Applicants may include both water refill stations and beverage container recycling receptacles in its project proposal and Budget. Refer to the Eligible Projects/Products section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Is the $275,000 funding maximum for qualified entities with centralized purchasing for multiple locations throughout the state or can each location qualify for $275,000?

The maximum is $275,000 for each entity. Refer to Available Funds section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. If an entity purchases a three-bin system (e.g., litter, beverage containers, and compost.), can the entity cover the cost difference?

Yes.  The entity may use its own funds to cover the difference in cost.

  1. If a university receives equipment at its main campus and needs to transport it to other campuses, can those costs be included under installation or personnel expenses?

Yes.  The transportation cost of equipment from one location to another is eligible and may be included as installation cost in the Equipment budget category.

Application

  1. When will this new funding opportunity be out? What is the maximum grant award?

The application solicitation period will begin July 31, 2024, and applications are due September 24, 2024. Refer to the Timeline and Cycle Details section of the Notice of Funds Available web page.

The minimum grant award is $75,000 and the maximum is $275,000. Refer to Available Funds section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. I have two programs that I would like to implement in my jurisdiction. The first is to replace existing single stream waste bins with multiple stream bins. The other is to replace old drinking fountains with water refill stations and add additional water refill stations. Do you suggest applying for a single grant or multiple grants?

Dual beverage recycling containers or multi-cluster bins are eligible expenditures, if it includes the collection of CRV containers. All bins must be permanently attached together. Refer to Eligible Costs Section of the Procedures and Requirements.

The purchase of water refill stations, including the installation, replacement of current infrastructure, plumbing, maintenance, additional attachments, modifications, or related educational and outreach materials/activities promoting water refill stations are eligible. Refer to Eligible Projects/Products Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

Only one application or a joint application can be submitted per entity for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Are bids/quotes for purchases such as bins or other materials required to be uploaded with the application? If so, is there a required number of quotes needed (example three quotes per purchase)?

Applicants may submit additional documents/attachments including estimates, bids, or other costs to support the requested amount in the Budget document for purchases of equipment or materials.

  1. How can we access the Beverage Container Recycling Grant application?

The application is available in CalRecycle’s web-based Grants Management System (GMS).  You must have a CalRecycle WebPass to log in to the system.  If you have not previously obtained a CalRecycle WebPass, you may create an account at the CalRecycle WebPass page.  Refer to the Application Access Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. Our current project scope includes city facilities, facilities operated by local schools, and a local park district. Can our city adopt an individual applicant resolution for a project that would extend beyond city facilities provided it has letters of support?

Eligible applicants may apply as an individual or as a joint applicant. Only one application can be submitted per entity. Eligible entities may join together in a joint grant application in which two or more eligible entities join together to implement the grant. A Lead Participant (Lead) must be designated to act on behalf of all participating entities. The Lead is the applicant, and if awarded, will be the grantee responsible for the performance of the grant and all required documentation.

Refer to the Applicant’s Documents Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions for specific requirements.

  1. Are multiple applications allowed per entity or just one per entity?

Only one application or a joint application can be submitted per entity for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. According to the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program’s timeline, is it possible to submit an application on or before the due date of September 24, 2024, with initial estimates, and then make revisions based on the research and planning conducted between September and the Notice to Proceed?

Applicants cannot submit revisions after the application due date of September 24, 2024. Refer to the Application Submittal and Deadline section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. We are a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) with agreements in place with each of our member agencies to administer programs such as the City County Payment Program (CCPP) and Used Oil Payment Program (OPP).  Will these agreements satisfy the eligibility requirements for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program?

The JPA agreement must give authority over solid waste management, list all member entities, and contain the signature of all members.  Refer to the Eligible Applicants Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

  1. If there is just one jurisdiction, is it preferred that the application be submitted by that entity rather than by a Joint Power Authority (JPA)?

A JPA may submit a grant application as an individual applicant and must identify all JPA members as Non-Lead Participants in the application’s Applicant/Participant Tab.  A member of the JPA may not submit an individual application if that entity is also a member of an applicant JPA.  Refer to the Eligible Applicants Section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions.

Related Links

For more information, visit Beverage Container Recycling Home