Questions and Answers: Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program (FY 2022-23)

Questions about the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program grant application are accepted in writing only, no later than March 5, 2024. Similar or related questions may be grouped together or reworded for clarity and responded to as one question. In order to receive a response, a question must pertain to clarification of the application and the requirements in the application process. Any questions submitted pertaining to other elements of the grant will not be posted on the official Question and Answer web page.

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.

Resources

General

Why does the Redemption Innovation Grant Program (RIG) name not focus on recycling? It seems to focus on collection for recycling.

CalRecycle revised the name to the “Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program” so that it aligns with the goals and intent of the program – to support start-up costs for recycling programs, which shall be limited to recycling centers, mobile recycling, reverse vending machines, or bag drop programs.

Will CalRecycle institute changes that will allow for technologies, which could both recycle and process materials, to return California Redemption Value (CRV) to citizens in private dwellings, commercial, or public buildings?

California’s Legislature, through the RIG program, provides CalRecycle with an opportunity to allow for technology to recycle and process CRV materials and expand locations where the public can redeem their containers at all the funded locations. This includes state-of-the-art reverse vending machines (RVMs) that incorporate new and innovative technology allowing for the collection of CRV materials, sorting of materials without requiring staffing on site, and customization of applications for various payment options. RVMs may be fabricated into kiosk/bulk collection systems which allow high volume redemption and processing of CRV materials.

What is the intent of the Redemption Innovation Grant? Is it for accessibility or providing effective redemption opportunities throughout the state?

The intent of the RIG Program is to support start-up costs for recycling programs, which shall be limited to recycling centers, mobile recycling, RVMs, and bag drop programs per Assembly Bill 179. The projects will support and maintain California’s goal of an 80% recycling rate while providing more accessible redemption opportunities throughout the state.

If grant funds are used to purchase equipment, how long does the awardee need to use the equipment before the equipment can be sold?

The RIG Program grant term ends April 1, 2026. Refer to the Timeline section in the Procedures and Requirements document. Equipment acquired with grant funds, that is used for the purpose for which CalRecycle approved its purchase, must be used no less than five (5) years after the end of the grant term. Additionally, the property must remain in the State of California during this time. Lastly, the grantee may not transfer Title to any real or personal property, including equipment, acquired with grant funds to any other entity without the express authorization of CalRecycle. Refer to the Real and Personal Property Acquired with Grant Funds section in the Terms and Conditions document.

If providing redemption services to a convenience zone that becomes “served”, do the stores in the convenience zone need to participate financially to support the ongoing operation of the program?

No. However, applicants will be reviewed based on their current status of the served or unserved convenience zone. Grantees will be responsible for the maintenance of the purchased equipment regardless of any changes in the status of the convenience zone.

I was unable to locate the specific grant programs. Would you please confirm whether the Workforce Development grant is part of RIG that was announced February 6th, or will it be announced through a separate application opportunity?

The Workforce Development Grant Program is separate from RIG. Information on how to apply for the Workforce Development Grant Program is available on the Workforce Development Grant Program website. Please ensure you are signed up for the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Listserv to be notified of the future Workforce Development Grant Program solicitation.

What does NTP mean in the RIG Program?

NTP stands for Notice to Proceed. This terminology is specific to the RIG Program and separate from the certification process/approval from the Division of Recycling. The grant term begins on the date of the NTP email. This email is the formal notification from CalRecycle authorizing the grantee to begin the grant project and incur costs for the RIG project. Expenditures made or costs incurred prior to the NTP date are not eligible for reimbursement.

I can’t find Corps on the eligible applicant list. Does a Corps qualify for the grant?

Corps are not listed specifically as eligible applicants. However, Local Conservation Corps may qualify as a non-profit entity if the entity is a non-profit. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can you tell me more and does the Redemption Innovation Grant Program apply to new voucher people?

Yes, new recycling centers who have completed the training/pre-certification process with the Division of Recycling are eligible to apply for the RIG Program. However, the applicant must be an eligible applicant type. In addition, they will need to be certified prior to receiving the Notice to Proceed (NTP). Please refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Is there a hard copy of the application for the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program that can be provided to me so that I may review the application before starting it online?

No. The application and related application documents are located in the Grants Management System (GMS). If you are experiencing technical issues, please contact GrantAssistance@CalRecycle.CA.Gov.

Will CalRecycle give a permit to a new recycling center with a location ‘to be determined’ since the grant funds will be used to aid in the purchase of land and/or building needed for the recycling center?

No. All site locations for an eligible RIG project must be identified and included in the grant application. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Under the grant award conditions, the grantee must pay all outstanding debts due to CalRecycle. Please provide examples of debts due to CalRecycle from certified recycling centers? What other debts are typically due from recycling centers in the current program?

An outstanding debt includes any payment(s) owed to CalRecycle. This may include, but is not limited to, fines, violations, etc. If an entity has received an invoice from CalRecycle for funds they owe to CalRecycle, and payment has not been received, that entity must remit payment to CalRecycle within 60 days of an award email, or the award will void.

Can you provide a copy of the scoring sheet for the grants prior to the grant submittal date? Will the scoring sheets for applicants become available to the public?

Each RIG application will be evaluated and ranked based on the eligibility criteria. This program is not scored; therefore, there will be no score sheets generated for this program. Refer to the Evaluation Process of the Eligibility Criteria and Evaluation Process for the Redemption Innovation Grant Program.

The grant period is through April 1, 2026. Does this mean that all grant funds need to be used/invoiced by that date?

The Redemption Innovation Grant program is a reimbursement program. A grantee will only be able to be reimbursed for authorized expenses made during the grant term. Equipment must be purchased and delivered, and installed, if applicable, prior to the grant term end date. All costs must be incurred and equipment delivered prior to April 1, 2026.

If a program is not viable to operate after July 1, 2026, will there be any penalty for the grantee if the program shuts down?

Grantees may lose eligibility for future funding.

In addition, equipment acquired with grant funds, that is used for the purpose for which CalRecycle approved its purchase, must be used no less than five (5) years after the end of the grant term. The property must remain in the State of California during this time. Refer to the Real and Personal Property Acquired with Grant Funds section in the Terms and Conditions document.

How must the facility pay the redemption to the consumer? Is a specific accounting by number and container type necessary or can a weight or average be used for payment amount.

This program does not change any laws or regulations regarding how a grantee pays the redemption value to the customer. A grantee must adhere to all laws and regulations regarding how consumers are to be paid.

When will the recording of the informational workshop for this grant be posted?

The informational workshop was not recorded. However, the Power Point presentation is available via the Public Meeting Notice: WEBINAR: Informational Webinar on Beverage Container Funding Programs Associated with Assembly Bill (AB) 179 and Senate Bill (SB) 1013.

Does the applicant (or a city) need to own the equipment (such as an RVM)? Or can the applicant/city lease the equipment? If the applicant owns the equipment, can it be re-sold?

Grantees may purchase or lease the equipment.

In the Terms and Conditions, it requires the applicants to use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), please identify or provide examples of acceptable GAAP methods acceptable to the Department. Please provide the statutory authority to require GAAP for participants in the Bottle Bill program.

As the oversight agency responsible for implementing the AB 179 Grant Programs, CalRecycle requires applicants and/or Grantees to use the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles to ensure Program funds are utilized appropriately. Refer to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles section of the Terms and Conditions document.

I have reviewed the application documents along with ancillary documents such as the Procedures and Requirements document. The documents make no statutory references as to its authority nor do they indicate that they have been adopted pursuant to the California Administrative Procedures Act (APA). Will they be adopted prior to issuing grants?

No. Provision 8 of Section 127 of AB 179 exempts this program from the requirements of the APA.

In the Terms and Conditions document it states that real and personal property must remain in California for five years after the grant term ends; as the grant term ends in April 2026, any equipment purchased immediately after a Notice to Proceed in 2024 may be seven years old at time of grant end. This is over the five-year useful life of many types of equipment. What is required in such situations?

Equipment acquired with grant funds, that is used for the purpose for which CalRecycle approved its purchase, must be used no less than five (5) years after the end of the grant term. Additionally, the property must remain in the State of California during this time. Refer to the Real and Personal Property Acquired with Grant Funds section in the Terms and Conditions document.

The Procedures and Requirements document states that “costs incurred” before the Notice to Proceed are ineligible. Does issuance of Purchase Orders count as a cost incurred? Or is the cost incurred when a payment is made?

A Purchase Order for the purpose of implementing a RIG grant project must be incurred after the NTP is issued. Money spent prior to the NTP is not eligible for reimbursement. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

In the Procedures and Requirements document, what is the criteria used to approve or deny Sole Source Justification?

If three bids are unavailable for specific eligible equipment and/or services related to the RIG project, a Sole Source Justification may be submitted and will be reviewed/approved on a case-by-case basis. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

In the Terms and Conditions document the reimbursement limitations appear to be contradictory. The nature of the grant is a reimbursement grant, so any cost reimbursed will need to have been already paid for by funding from other sources. Can CalRecycle please clarify?

Yes, the RIG Program is a reimbursement grant. An applicant may initially incur costs associated with the grant project paid for by other funding sources; the applicant may need to identify those other funding sources. However, if awarded and the NTP email is sent to the grantee, the grantee may be reimbursed by CalRecycle for eligible costs associated with the grant project. The grantee must submit a complete payment request, supporting documentation, and proof of payment for review and approval. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Eligibility

Does the RIG program require a city to apply, or can a recycling center apply independently?

Recycling centers and local jurisdictions are eligible to apply individually. For detailed information, refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Are nonprofit organizations required to be registered with the State of California?

Nonprofit entities, in addition to being registered with the California Secretary of State, must also be registered with the California Department of Justice, and appear on their Registry of Charitable Trusts.

If a nonprofit entity is excluded from registering with the Department of Justice, proof must be provided with the application. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Are dealers who are not members of a grocer cooperative eligible to apply for grant funds for the use of reverse vending machines (RVMs)?

All dealers are eligible applicants. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can the funds be used to expand convenient redemption and collection at college campuses, sporting venues, large apartment complexes, or other areas?

Grant funds may be utilized for expansion redemption and collection activities via the eligible project types at college campuses, sporting venues, and multi-family apartment complexes. Applicants will need to provide details of the proposed project type and project location(s).

In addition, college campuses are eligible applicants and can be certified as a Community Service Program. A local jurisdiction and recycling center may collaborate and submit a joint application to provide and/or expand convenient redemption opportunities. A waste hauler or recycling center may do the same with multi-family entities. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

If a recycler operates reverse vending machines at a dealer location, would they apply as a dealer or an existing certified recycling center?

If the recycler is certified, the applicant type is an existing certified recycling center regardless of the proposed project location. A dealer who only wants to operate an RVM is identified as a dealer.

How will a new recycling center be evaluated and receive a Notice to Proceed (NTP) prior to being certified?

A new recycling center must be certified prior to being issued the NTP. Once certified, CalRecycle will issue a Limited NTP only allowing for specific eligible expenditures (e.g., conditional use permit) to ensure the recycling center becomes operational.

Under the Dealers as eligible applicants, what is considered an unserved convenience zone?

An unserved convenience zone may be a retail establishment that sells beverages in beverage containers to consumers that is then required to either redeem CRV in store (Option A) or pay $100 a day to CalRecycle (Option B) if they do not redeem CRV in store. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

If a reverse vending machine (RVM) is established prior to receiving the Notice to Proceed (NTP), would this be considered as redeem in-store?

No. All dealers must submit an affidavit to CalRecycle that states they choose to redeem in-store prior to the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) email. Expenditures made or costs incurred prior to the NTP date are not eligible for reimbursement. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Our nonprofit organization is part of community service programs (SP) which operate bag drop-off. Are we eligible for the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program?

Yes. Nonprofit organizations are eligible applicants. Community Service Programs (SP) are also eligible to engage in setting up drop-off bins at specific sites. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

If I own a certified recycling center under an LLC and own a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that is not certified under any CalRecycle programs, can I still apply as a nonprofit 501(c)(3)?

Nonprofit entities are eligible applicants, in addition to being registered with the California Secretary of State, must also be registered with the California Department of Justice, and appear on their Registry of Charitable Trusts.

What project(s) can a nonprofit 501(c)(3) apply for under the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant Program (RIG)?

Nonprofit organizations except private K–12 schools are eligible to apply for the RIG Program’s eligible project types. The eligible project types would be based on the applicant type the entity is intending to apply as. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

We hold a Drop-off or Collection certification. We are interested in exploring the possibility of applying for the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant program. Would it be possible to receive more information about the requirements and the application process for this program?

For information on drop-off collection programs refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document. To apply for the Beverage Container Innovation Grant Program, refer to the Application Access section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

A recycler needs to negotiate a land lease but doesn’t want to enter into a contract if the grant is not awarded. Can the recycler have the flexibility in determining which locations (convenience zones) will be rolled out after the grant is awarded? For example, can the application be for 5 projects out of a list of 10 potential sites? Landlord negotiations will determine which of the 5 get opened.

The application must specify the project sites for the RIG Program. This information is required in conducting a complete review and ranking of each eligible application.

As part of the grant evaluation process for bag drop and mobile projects, will the applications be reviewed for immediate CRV payment options (cash, check, voucher, or electronic payments) to consumers? Will CalRecycle disqualify the application if the Recycling Center only includes one of the payment options in their RIG project?

All applications will be reviewed after the close of the application period. CalRecycle staff will review the applications for completeness and eligibility; the grant award is tentatively scheduled for August 2024. Refer to Timeline section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Certified Recycling Centers need to comply with the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations. As it relates to consumer payments, recycling centers may pay consumers electronically; however, they must also comply with Public Resources Code section 14572, which states: a certified recycling center shall accept from any consumer…and beverage container and shall pay to the consumer…the refund value. Certified recycling centers must serve all consumers; therefore, any consumer without a method to be paid electronically has the right to be paid on delivery. (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, [Regulation] section 2535(a).) Regulation section 2095 states that payments to consumers shall be in cash, or check or by voucher, which is immediately redeemable for cash.

I am confused about the timing of eligible costs, permits, and the Notice to Proceed (NTP). The guidelines state that costs incurred before receiving the NTP are not eligible for reimbursement. However, to obtain the NTP for a new recycler, we would need a certified recycler permit, which in turn requires other business permits that necessitate us being active lessors of the project’s property. These costs would be incurred before receiving any assurance of funding. How should we proceed with obtaining the necessary permits if we are not actively leasing the property until after receiving the NTP?

The applicant will be responsible for costs associated with becoming a certified recycling center prior to the NTP. Costs incurred prior to the NTP are not eligible for reimbursement. Once certified, CalRecycle will issue a Limited NTP allowing for only specific eligible expenditures (e.g., conditional use permit) to ensure the recycling center becomes operational.

All locations for an eligible RIG project must be identified and included in the grant application. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

In the scenario of relocating an existing recycling center within the same city, which requires a new permit, how does this affect our eligibility for grant funding? Is there any risk of negatively impacting our eligibility due to the relocation process?

The applicant will need to identify the location/site of operation on the application for staff review. If changes need to be made to your project, you may speak with your Certification Specialist regarding relocation criteria and how it impacts project operation. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

Insurance is listed as an ineligible cost in the Procedures and Requirements document – is this specific to property insurance? Are commercial vehicle, workers’ compensation, and healthcare insurances for resources funded by RIG eligible?

Property insurance is an ineligible cost in the RIG Program. Vehicle insurance is an eligible cost. Workers’ compensation and health benefits are typically included in staff salaries and are eligible costs. However, vehicle insurance, workers’ compensation, and health benefits would all be subject to the 20 percent cap on non-infrastructure related costs.

Non-infrastructure costs are limited to 20 percent of the total award amount. Non-infrastructure costs include, but are not limited to, personnel, education and outreach, office space, and property lease. Refer to the Available Funds section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Does a grantee need to have an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing and Practices (EPPP) policy in place?

The EPPP policy is not required for RIG applicants.

Certification

Are Community Service Program applicants eligible to conduct the same project types as certified recyclers?

Community Service Programs may operate RVMs, engage in setting up drop-off at specific sites, or collect from various locations such as schools, churches, or parks. However, Community Service Programs are not able to pay CRV. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Are dealers eligible to conduct mobile or bag drop projects?

Dealers may only apply for RVM projects.

We would like to start the certification application process for some locations as soon as possible. We are concerned that in doing so, prior to the application announcement, the locations for which we are applying will no longer be eligible for grant funding. Is this possible?

You may apply for certification at any time with the Division of Recycling. The criteria for grant funding is based on the eligible applicant and project type, not locations. Refer to the Eligible Applicants and Eligible Projects sections in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Do applicants need to be certified and operational before the Grant Agreement is executed?

After an Applicant is awarded a grant, they will receive a Grant Agreement. The Grant Agreement needs to be signed by the Signature Authority and returned to CalRecycle no later than 60 days after receiving your notice of award. Awardees must be certified before receiving the Notice to Proceed (NTP). In addition, grantees must be operational within a designated time period, as stipulated in their Grant Agreement.

I would like further clarification on the Community Service Program. As a public agency, would we be able to operate an RVM that pays customers CRV? I notice it says Community Service Programs are not able to pay CRV but can operate an RVM. I assume the RVM would pay the CRV and our agency would essentially be hosting it. Is that correct?

No. Public agencies that plan on operating as a Community Service Program cannot operate an RVM that pays out CRV to customers. Only certified recycling centers and dealers can pay CRV for redeemed beverage containers. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

If our agency becomes a Community Service Program, do we need to be certified or would the RVM be the certified recycling center?

A Community Service Program (SP) can be certified to collect CRV materials. However, SPs are not allowed to pay out CRV to consumers. The SP should make sure it is clear to the consumer, when they approach the machine, that the materials inserted into the RVM would be for donation to the SP and the consumer will not receive any CRV. A certified recycling center can expand its services by providing an RVM to collect CRV material from customers. Unlike an SP, a recycling center can pay out CRV.

We are looking at this grant to help set up a new recycling center. However, to obtain a permit, an address and location are needed. What steps should we take to do this?

You may apply for certification at any time with the Division of Recycling. However, new recycling centers will be required to include one or more eligible project types (Mobile, Bag Drop, or RVM) to be considered eligible for funding. Refer to the Eligible Applicants and Eligible Projects sections in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

What are the qualifications needed for a Community Service Program?

Community Service Programs are operated by a nonprofit/charitable organization with tax exempt status, or a city, county, or other public agency. Community Service programs (SP) are not able to pay CRV. SPs may operate RVMs, engage in setting up drop-off bins at specific sites, or collect from various locations such as schools, churches, or parks. Charitable organizations (e.g., environmental groups, community groups, and municipal governments) often become certified as a community service program as part of their fundraising efforts.

More information can be found at Certified Recycling Centers – CalRecycle Home Page.

Can a local jurisdiction receive certification to become a new recycling center or a dealer to install a reverse vending machine?

Yes, a local jurisdiction is an eligible organizational type under the RIG Program and eligible to become a certified recycling center. Refer to the Eligible Applicant section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

We must attend a training session before applying to become a new recycling center. If we attend on March 6, 2024 pass the exam, and submit immediately, it might take as long as 60 days to review? That’s May 6, 2024. The RIG application is due on April 16, 2024. Can we apply for the RIG grant if our application is still pending?

Yes, applicants are not required to be to be certified with the Division of Recycling at the time an application is submitted. However, the applicant will need to be certified before receiving the Notice to Proceed (NTP).

If we receive certification approval, will we have enough time to complete certification process prior to the NTP?

Applicants will have ample time to complete the certification process at the time of award. However, applicants will need to be certified prior to receiving the NTP. Therefore, CalRecycle recommends that applicants apply for certification with the Division of Recycling as soon as possible.

What is a “served zone” or an “unserved convenience zone” for purposes of eligibility for a new center? (e.g., Certain counties seem to have dozens of existing recycling centers – will a new center need to be in an unserved portion of the County or area?)

A “served zone” is defined as a convenience zone with at least one recycler inside its boundaries. Convenience zone recyclers provide opportunities to redeem containers near where beverages were purchased. An “unserved zone” is a convenience zone without a recycler, who does not have an exemption, that is considered either Unserved or Hold.

By law, there must be at least one certified recycling center that can redeem all CRV containers in a convenience zone’s radius unless other conditions are met.

If a city-owned recycling facility acts as a hub (processing center) to open and process the bagged CRV material from multiple bag drop locations (inside supermarket or other parking lots), is the current recycling certification/permit enough or is there a separate certification/permit required for each bag drop location?

Multiple bag drop receptacles may be collected and processed by a single certified recycling center. The bag drop receptacles are not independently certified. Please speak with your Certification Specialist for questions regarding certification. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

If you must be certified prior to the Notice to Proceed (NTP) email and funds spent prior to issuance of the NTP email do not qualify for reimbursement, how do you purchase or lease property without grant funds?

Once certified with the Division of Recycling, CalRecycle will issue a Limited Notice to Proceed allowing for only specific eligible expenditures (e.g., conditional use permit) to ensure the recycling center becomes operational. Recycling centers must be operational within 60 calendar days of certification. Any costs accrued prior to the issuance of the NTP email are ineligible for reimbursement. This includes the purchase or lease of property/real estate without an issued NTP.

Certified recycling centers must be operational within 60 calendar days of certification. If a conditional use permit is required, is there an exception to this rule since a conditional use permit can take up to a year to obtain?

No. All certified recycling centers must be operational within 60 calendar days of certification, otherwise the grant award will be rescinded.

Can a new recycling center be dually certified as both a recycling center and a processor?

A new recycling center can be certified as both a recycling center and a processor. The Certification Application for Recycling Centers & Processors is available for reference.

Is it required for the site, in which the CRV material is taken for sorting and payment, to be a certified facility? If so, what type of certification? This is for the bag drop program.

CalRecycle does not currently certify bag drop only programs. Bag drop programs must be associated with a certified recycling center that meets all the laws and regulations for certified recycling centers. Please speak with your Certification Specialist. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

Can an offsite location be a certified processor?

Please speak with your Certification Specialist for questions regarding certification. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

If an applicant is a certified recycler with a voucher, but has not begun operations at a location yet, is the applicant considered a new recycling business or an existing business?

The applicant would be considered a new recycling center business. New recycling centers who have completed the training/pre-certification process with the Division of Recycling are eligible to apply for the RIG Program. However, the applicant must be an eligible applicant type. In addition, they will need to be certified prior to receiving the Notice to Proceed and operational within 60 calendar days of certification. Please refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

We are currently registered as a certified recycler and the RVM(s) deployed is certified as a new recycling center, as well. Would we be considered an existing certified recycling center or a new recycling center for ranking (as each new RVM would be a new recycling center)?

The applicant would be considered as an existing recycling center. Please refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

A certified and operational recycling center’s lease will end after April 16, 2024. The recycling center will relocate and be operational at a new location within the same city before the RIG grant is awarded in August 2024. Both certified recycling center locations are operated by the same corporation. How should this recycling center provide updated location information? If CalRecycle issues a new license number instead of allowing the existing license to transfer locations, will this disqualify the recycling center applicant?

Eligible Projects

Are drop-off collection programs an eligible project type?

Drop-off collection programs are not eligible. Community Service Programs may engage in setting up drop-off bins which allow consumers to recycle their beverage containers at designated drop-off locations. However, Community Service Programs are unable to pay CRV. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Does opening a new recycling center that only does weigh-and-pay suffice as an eligible project type?

No. New recycling centers will be required to include one or more eligible project types (Mobile, Bag Drop, or RVM) to be considered eligible for funding.

Are redemption programs that pay consumers the CRV deposit the only type of projects eligible, or will there be an option to donate beverage containers?

The RIG Program provides more redemption opportunities to consumers, this includes projects that pay direct CRV to consumers and those that do not.

Community Service Programs were included to allow smaller entities, who may not have the capacity to operate as a recycling center but can still collect donated materials. Although these entities would be unable to pay CRV, the Community Service Programs may still pay scrap value.

Are Dealer Cooperatives only eligible for reverse vending machine projects or does the requirement only apply for individual dealers?

Individual dealers are only eligible to apply for RVM projects, unless certified as a recycling center. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

How will the methods of redemption in the Redemption Innovation Grant Program’s eligible projects (RVM, bag drop, etc.) incorporate refillable containers?

The RIG Program’s focus is on the redemption of CRV beverage containers. Refillable containers are not eligible.

When comparing small reverse vending machine vs. reverse vending machine projects in general, does size or capacity matter?

Small RVM projects are identified by the applicant’s requested funding amount ($30,000 minimum grant award amount to $100,000 maximum grant award amount) and do not refer to size or capacity. The only eligible project types are RVM, mobile, and bag drop project types. Refer to the Eligible Projects and Available Funds sections of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Do “Mobile Recycling” projects need to encompass both mobile and fixed facilities?

A mobile recycling project is an expansion of a certified recycling center’s current services. Mobile Recycling projects are required to be non-fixed locations such as pop-up, one-time, staffed collection events. Mobile recycling projects must pay CRV to consumers at the time of drop off.

We would like to establish reverse vending machines at one of our stores. We are deciding between two stores to host the machines (both of which sell beverage containers). However, only one is eligible to be a certified recycling center. Are RVMs eligible under the New Recycling Center Business eligibility criteria?

Yes. RVM projects are eligible for new recycling center businesses. RVM projects would also be eligible for dealers who are not certified recycling centers. Dealers could pay consumers CRV for redeemed beverage containers but the Dealers will not be reimbursed for the CRV paid out to consumers. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

We are an existing recycling center in South Lake Tahoe, CA. We recently purchased a new glass machine in preparation for the Distilled Wine and Spirits CRV law that went into effect January 1, 2024. Is this purchase considered eligible for the grant funding?

No. The purchased equipment is not eligible for grant funding. The Grant Term begins on the date of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) email. Therefore, expenditures made, or costs incurred prior to the NTP date are not eligible for reimbursement. Refer to the Grant Term section of the Procedures and Requirement document.

Do the following types of equipment (new forklift, new roll-off containers/bins, new recycling baler) qualify for the Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grant?

Yes. The purchase of equipment in question is classified as infrastructure and therefore is an eligible expense. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Would a project be considered eligible if it is in an unserved convenience zone? No convenience zone?

Projects in unserved convenience zones are considered eligible under the Redemption Innovation Grant Program. Projects that are not in a convenience zone are considered eligible for funding only for certified recycling centers and community service programs. A dealer outside of a convenience zone cannot redeem containers for consumers unless it is a certified recycling center.

Reading the information related to eligible projects, are these specific suggestions or is my project required to fit into one these categories? We are a community service program, but the only eligible project category would be a bag drop-off. We do not pay our patrons that drop-off/donate their cans to our non-profit.

Community Service Programs may operate RVMs and engage in setting up drop-off bins at specific sites or collect from various locations such as schools, churches, parks. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

As a water district, we are particularly interested in learning about other grantees who are similar in size. Can CalRecycle provide information or connect us with relevant contacts who could share insights on projects operated by water districts or small municipalities in disadvantaged communities?

Since this is the initial solicitation for the RIG Program, no project and/or grantee information is available at this time. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to other water districts or municipalities operating in disadvantaged communities that may be able to offer insight related to similar projects.

Would programs be allowed to focus on one CRV material type or do the programs have to accept all CRV containers? Thinking along the lines of providing glass focused collection for CRV and non-CRV.

Certified recycling centers are required to collect all material types. However, Dealers and Community Service Programs have the flexibility to focus on specific material types.

What are the regulations for the operation of a bag drop project in a new location?

Bag drop projects are to adhere to the same laws and regulations that are in effect for recycling centers.

Looking at the Certification Application on CalRecycle’s website, an applicant can only check off boxes to apply to be a recycling center or processor. There is no option for RVM or bag drop projects. The RIG Criteria shows bag drop as a method of redemption offered by recyclers. Will bag drop locations have their own recycling center number or fall under the main/host recycling center number?

To operate a reverse vending machine (RVM), an applicant will need to complete a recycling center/processor application. There is a box on the application for the applicant to check if they only want to operate an RVM. Bag drop recycling centers are an extension of a certified recycling center and utilize the certification identification number of the recycling center.

How will the record keeping of receipts and logs be kept? As a sub location to the main Recycling Center? Will the bag drop program transfer or sell the material in DORIIS as a recycling center to recycling center transaction?

Recycling centers, regardless of how they accept the material from a consumer, must comply with the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations. The recycling center must notify their CalRecycle Certification Specialist in writing that they would like to operate a bag drop project. The Certification Specialist can also answer questions regarding DORIIS (Division of Recycling Integrated Information System) entries. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

What is the process for an existing recycling center to have a bag drop program at their current site?

The recycling center must notify their CalRecycle Certification Specialist in writing that they would like to operate a bag drop project. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

Is it permissible for a bag drop location to receive material outside of the recycling center’s hours of operation? Will CalRecycle’s website post the different hours of operations for the two redemption options (e.g., recycling center: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; bag drop system: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.)?

Yes. The bag drop project can have separate hours of operation from the recycling center’s regular hours of operation.

Yes. CalRecycle will update our website to show the staffed hours for the recycling center and its bag drop location’s hours of operation.

Can an applicant apply for two grants: one for mobile recycling and one for an RVM project? What is the maximum award amount for a mobile recycling grant?

An applicant who is a Dealer, or Existing or New Certified Recycling Centers may submit an application that includes multiple project types and locations. The minimum grant award amount per application is $500,000. The maximum grant award per application is $3,000,000.

A separate application must be submitted for Small RVM Project types. An applicant that is applying for only the Small RVM Projects type must submit an application for only this project type. The minimum grant award amount per application is $30,000. The maximum grant award amount per application is $100,000.

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Can CalRecycle provide more information or examples of a bag drop program?

Bag drop projects are another method of redemption offered by recycling centers where consumers redeem empty beverage containers by delivering the containers to stationary locations in a sealed bag, box, or other receptacle for the recycler to inspect and weigh at a time or location other than where the containers are deposited. Refer to the Eligible Projects sections of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can all of the infrastructure costs associated with opening a new recycling center, which contains a bag drop program, be eligible for funding?

Most infrastructure costs associated with opening a new recycling center are considered eligible if it includes one of the eligible project types in the RIG Program. Refer to the Eligible Projects sections of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document and Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Are there any priorities or limitations in applications based on the project type? For example, will RVM have priority over bag drop?

No, there will be no priority or limitation in the ranking criteria based on the project type. Refer to the Evaluation Process of the Eligibility Criteria and Evaluation Process for the Redemption Innovation Grant Program.

Can the entire award amount be used for the same project type (e.g., all RVM)?

Yes, an entire award amount may be utilized for the same project type. All costs associated with the project must be included in the Budget document that is submitted with the application.

Is CalRecycle making any changes regarding RVMs and Bag drop locations so they are not considered a ‘recycling center’, thus allowing multiple RVMs or bag drop locations in the same zone and still be eligible to receive Handling fees?

No changes to the requirements of a certified recycling center are being made as a result of this grant program.

If someone participated in an RVM or bag drop program, can the immediate cash payment to a consumer be made available at the recycling center located miles away? If so, how far away can the recycling center be from the remote drop off location?

Certified Recycling Centers need to comply with the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations. As it relates to consumer payments, recycling centers may pay consumers electronically; however, they must also comply with Public Resources Code section14572, which states: a certified recycling center shall accept from any consumer…and beverage container and shall pay to the consumer…the refund value. Certified recycling centers must serve all consumers; therefore, any consumer without a method to be paid electronically has the right to be paid on delivery. (California Code Regulations., title 14, (Regulation) section 2535(a).) Regulation section 2095 states that payments to consumers shall be in cash, or check or by voucher, which is immediately redeemable for cash.

Can a bag drop location, RVM, or a recycling center set lower load limits for customers?

CalRecycle has no statutory authority to lower load limits for the project types included in the RIG Program.

Is there a difference between mobile projects and satellite projects?

The term, “Satellite” projects, is no longer applicable to the RIG Program. A mobile recycling project is an expansion of a certified recycling center’s current services. Mobile Recycling projects are required to be non-fixed locations such as pop-up, one-time, staffed collection events. Mobile recycling projects must pay CRV to consumers at the time of drop off.

Which applicant and project types (Mobile, Bag Drop, RVM) would be considered serving a convenience zone?

Certified recycling centers are the only eligible applicant types who would be able to serve a convenience zone.

Can there be multiple bag drop locations in the same zone? Is each bag drop location eligible for handling fees?

The California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations do not prohibit multiple recycling centers from being in the same zone. However, only one recycling center may receive handling fees. For the purposes of the RIG Program, only the recycling center who is currently serving a convenience zone will be eligible for grant funding to operate a project within the zone.

Grantees that are already certified in a convenience zone may be able to add bag drop to their recycling model. Multiple bag drop receptacles may be located in the same zone, but the bag drop receptacles will be considered an extension of the operating recycling center, utilizing its certification ID, and therefore bag drop receptacles will have no impact on handling fees.

If changes need to be made to your project, you may speak with your Certification Specialist regarding relocation criteria and how it impacts project operation. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov

We plan to lease a warehouse and set up a beverage container collection center, utilizing RVMs. Once sorted, the materials will be transported to our baling and processing location in accordance with CalRecycle guidelines. I am seeking clarification on the eligibility of our proposed collections center. The grant overview states that the funding is for recycling centers, mobile recycling, reverse vending machines, or bag drop programs. While our center would fit under the definition of a recycling center, the application guidelines do not explicitly mention it under the Eligible Projects section. Could you please confirm whether our proposed collection center would be eligible for funding under the grant?

New recycling centers will be required to include one or more eligible project types (Mobile, Bag Drop, or Reverse Vending Machine (RVM)) in their application to be considered eligible for funding. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Concerning rules applying to bag drop operations, is there a mandated time period that CRV payments need to be made to the consumer? We are in a rural area and would pick up the bags once a week, process and send out payment. Is this allowed on a weekly basis?

Can grant monies for RVMs only be spent on the purchase of the machines or can the money also be utilized for service and maintenance?

Grant funds can be utilized for the service and maintenance of the reverse vending machines. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

If existing recycling centers add RVMs, are they eligible to apply for the grant?

Yes. Existing recycling centers who include RVMs in their project are eligible to apply for the RIG Program. Refer to the Eligible Applicants and Eligible Projects section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Are mobile recycling centers (e.g., trucks with RVMs) eligible to apply for grants?

This program does not allow for independent mobile recycling centers. Only a certified recycling center can utilize mobile recycling, which can be one-time collection events at a location other than the certified recycling center’s address. Pilot project recyclers who are authorized to operate mobile projects will need to work with the Division of Recycling to expand the pilot project jurisdictions and the certification activities authorized under the pilot projects.

Can you provide us with a detailed list of what is acceptable to spend the grant money on?

A list of eligible costs and expenditure items can be found in the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Will any brand of RVMs be eligible or is there a list of allowable RVMs that we should use?

The applicant may choose any brand when purchasing or leasing an RVM but must still adhere to all applicable bidding requirements as stated in the Terms and Conditions for the grant.

Can I have multiple RVMs placed in my recycling center? If so, does that change or increase the grant amount received?

A recycling center may choose to place multiple reverse vending machines at their site. The grant funds awarded will not change.

Can you provide the bottle bill section(s) that make mobile recycling projects eligible for these grants?

Assembly Bill 179 Budget 2022 provides statutory authority to the Department to fund these programs. This grant will fund certified recycling centers to use mobile recycling to increase convenience for consumers to get their CRV material redeemed.

Can you provide the adopted regulations and operating standards for bag drop recycling programs under these grants?

Assembly Bill 179 Budget 2022 provides statutory authority to the Department to fund these programs and adopt guidelines to ensure the program is a direct link to beverage container recycling. All bag drop programs funded under this grant must be an extension of a certified recycling center and adhere to all laws and regulations regarding the operation of a certified recycling center.

Can RVMs and bag drop programs provide only electronic payments to customers? If not, please provide the bill section and regulations that define cash payments are required.

Certified Recycling Centers need to comply with the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations. As it relates to consumer payments, recycling centers may pay consumers electronically; however, they must also comply with Public Resources Code section 14572, which states: a certified recycling center shall accept from any consumer…and beverage container and shall pay to the consumer…the refund value. Certified recycling centers must serve all consumers; therefore, any consumer without a method to be paid electronically has the right to be paid on delivery. (California Code Regulations title 14, (Regulation) section 2535(a).) Regulation section 2095 states that payments to consumers shall be in cash, or check or by voucher, which is immediately redeemable for cash. Payment requirements for bag drop programs are addressed in Public Resources Code section 14538(d)(3)(B). This grant program has no impact on existing laws and regulations regarding payment requirements.

Can applicants applying for grant funds set customer limits on the amount of material a customer can deliver to the program on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, regardless of whether it is a mobile program, reverse vending machine, or a bag drop program? If not, can you provide the bill section or regulation that states a business cannot set material limits less than the state maximums?

This grant program has no impact on current laws or regulations regarding load limits.

Can an existing recycling center be eligible for grant funds to install a bag drop collection unit or an RVM at their current location allowing for the expansion of the hours of operation to accept CRV materials?

Yes. Recycling centers are eligible to apply for grant funding for bag drop projects or RVMs. Each project can have separate hours of operation from the recycling center’s regular hours of operation.

If the bag drop project or RVM is part of a regional collection system, can grant funds be used to locate a bag drop or RVM at an existing recycling center?

Only eligible applicants as defined in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document are eligible to apply for the RIG Program. The applicant must also include one or more eligible project types (Mobile, Bag Drop, or RVM) to be considered eligible for funding. Refer to the Eligible Applicants and Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Would an applicant be eligible for grant funds if they installed multiple RVMs or bag drop collection units in the same unserved zone? Would all locations operated by the same recycling center be eligible for handling fees?

The California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act and California Code of Regulations do not prohibit multiple recycling centers from being in the same zone. However, only one recycling center may receive handling fees. Please speak with your Recycling Specialist for questions regarding handling fees. If you are unaware of who your assigned Certification Specialist is, please call the Certification Unit at (916) 324-8598 or email DORCertFileRoom@Calrecycle.ca.gov.

Can grant funds be used to upgrade existing recycling center equipment that provides support to both new collection systems and current recycling center operations?

Upgrades for existing equipment that facilitates a new collection method are eligible costs under the Redemption Innovation Grant Program. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Can a new mobile recycling, RVM, or bag drop location be dually certified as a recycling center and a processor if the new site does not have the ability to receive additional material from other recycling centers?

Mobile recycling and bag drop recycling are not independently certified as recycling centers. RVMs are not eligible to be certified as a processor.

Would the cost of building a warehouse on leased land be considered an eligible infrastructure expense or is this out of the bounds on what could be considered necessary infrastructure for establishing a recycling center?

Land lease and storage are non-infrastructure costs that are eligible in the RIG Program. However, these costs are capped at 20 percent of the total grant award. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document for a list on non-infrastructure costs.

What kind of property can you purchase, I am assuming commercial and industrial? Can part of the property be subleased if unused?

The purchase of commercial and industrial properties is eligible in the RIG Program. However, costs that are not related to the grant project are ineligible.

Non-infrastructure costs are limited to 20 percent of the total award amount. Combined costs, include but are not limited to, permitting, personnel, public education/outreach, indirect costs, office space, property lease, and general administrative costs not related to construction or installation, shall not exceed 20 percent of the total amount requested. Refer to the Available Funds section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can assets acquired with this grant be used in existing recycling operations to handle increased volume because of grant fund expenditures?

Yes, equipment acquired through the RIG Program may be utilized in current operations at an existing or new certified recycling center.

Is it permissible to apply for a grant aimed at the expansion and enhancement of recycling services while simultaneously submitting an application to open a new recycling center in a city currently without such facilities?

An applicant who is a Dealer, or Existing or New Certified Recycling Center may submit an application that includes multiple project types and locations. The minimum grant award amount per application is $500,000. The maximum grant award per application is $3,000,000. Applications for the RIG Program must include one of the three eligible project types (RVM, bag drop, or mobile). In addition, an applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

For a recycling center considering expansion into a new area without existing services, can the operation under a mobile recycling model using the same RC ID from another city’s center meet the criteria for expanding recycling services under CalRecycle’s guidelines?

Yes, this proposed project is eligible under the RIG Program.

We are an established center which rents our location and has outgrown its size. We own the property adjacent to where we rent. Can we apply for this grant to build our own facility to accommodate the amount of business we do?

Grant funds may be utilized for expansion, redemption, and collection activities. Applicants will need to provide details of the proposed project type and project location(s). The application associated with the new facility must include one of the three eligible project types (RVM, bag drop, or mobile).

Are grant funds available to initiate recycler door-to-door pickup systems similar to projects operated under the Pilot Projects?

Only projects authorized by Beverage Container Redemption Pilot Program established pursuant to Section 14571.9 of the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act (Act) may operate under the statutory and regulations for pilot projects until June 30, 2026. Pilot project recyclers will need to work with the Division of Recycling to expand the pilot project jurisdictions and the certification activities authorized under the pilot projects. Refer to the Eligible Applicant section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Currently, RVMs cannot process new container types (bag in box, bladder, etc.) in a way that complies with CalRecycle guidance. For example, RVMs cannot ensure the bag in box containers are intact (bladder, spicket, and box together). Will RIG applications for RVM projects be required to supplement RVM redemption in unserved Convenience Zones with other types of redemption that can process these container types and does this need to be addressed in the RIG application?

Certified Recycling Centers operating an RVM will need to have staff on site in order to collect the material types that do not fit into the RVM equipment. Dealers utilizing an RVM must still comply with the requirements in the Act and Regulations.

Non-infrastructure costs are limited to 20 percent of the total grant award amount. Will you please provide more information on what costs qualify as infrastructure costs and non-infrastructure costs? Specifically, software is identified as an eligible cost in the Procedures and Requirements document. Do the costs to develop the digital infrastructure required to operate innovative redemption networks qualify as infrastructure costs?

The sole development of software is an ineligible cost. Grant funds may be utilized for infrastructure costs associated with constructing prototype equipment or purchasing existing equipment for the RIG project. The software development included in constructing prototype equipment would be considered a non-infrastructure cost.

Funding

Can CalRecycle increase the allowable non-infrastructure costs to up to 40% and include Operating, Education, and Personnel?

Non-infrastructure costs are limited to 20% of the total grant award. Refer to the Eligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document for a list on non-infrastructure costs.

When is the next cycle and how much of the remaining $33,333,000 will be distributed in it?

Future grant cycles will be determined in 2024.

What is the mechanism and process to provide funding after a Notice to Proceed? For example, is there an audit process to ensure funding is spent on eligible programs and expenses, or will the grantee be approved for funds on a reimbursement basis, following submission of appropriate evidence (receipts, sign off of plan, etc.)?

The RIG Program is a reimbursement grant program. The application documents include grant instructions, payment request process, etc. For detailed information, refer to the Payment Request and Documentation and Audit Considerations sections in the Procedures and Requirements document.

How long after a Notice to Proceed (NTP) would funds be released? 30 days? 60 days?

The RIG Program is a reimbursement grant program. Costs may be incurred once the NTP has been issued by the Department. For more information about payment, see the Grant Payment Information section in the Procedures and Requirements document.

Do we have to pay grant funding back?

No. Awarded grant funds are not paid back to CalRecycle. All grant funds are subject to an audit process, and if it is determined that any funds were expended inappropriately, CalRecycle can seek repayment of those funds.

Will there be any advantage for applicants to partner with other organizations and request larger funding amounts?

Applicants will need to determine whether developing a partnership with other organizations is beneficial in the overall scope/implementation of their RIG Project and whether a need exists to request a larger funding amount. Each project will be ranked based on the eligible applicant type, project locations/convenience zones, as well as completeness of the application. An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

How much grant funding can I get for one location and what can I use the funds for? I am looking to use for permits, plans, equipment, labor (training the staff) and security deposit. Are all these costs eligible?

The minimum grant award amount for an applicant who is a Dealer, or Existing or New Certified Recycling Centers per application is $500,000. The maximum grant award per application is $3,000,000.

A new recycling center must be certified prior to being issued a Notice to Proceed. Once a new recycling center is certified, CalRecycle will issue a Limited Notice to Proceed allowing for only certain eligible expenditures (e.g., conditional use permit) to ensure the recycling center becomes operational. Once a new recycling center becomes operational, CalRecycle will issue a Notice to Proceed for the remaining grant award funding. Refer to the Procedures and Requirements document for a list of eligible and ineligible costs.

How much is awarded per location? If it is variable, what determines the grant amount?

Grant awards are not based on locations. The amount requested in the application will determine the grant amount awarded.

A separate application must be submitted for Small RVM Project types. An applicant that is applying for only the Small RVM Projects type must submit an application for only this project type. The minimum grant award amount per application is $30,000.
The maximum grant award amount per application is $100,000.

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Is this initial round of funding likely to favor the expansion of existing recycling centers or the creation of new centers? Will CalRecycle emphasize one or the other?

The Redemption Innovation Grant Program’s initial round of funding does not favor either expanding existing recycling centers or creating new recycling centers. However, both are eligible when including one of the three eligible project types (RVM, bag drop, mobile).

CalRecycle will determine the appropriate rank based on the Evaluation Process outlined in the Eligibility Criteria and Evaluation Process.

Will this round of funding likely be exhausted after supporting Rank 1 Sort A applicants? Will CalRecycle try to fund as many as possible, or concentrate the funding on fewer, larger centers?

Funding availability will depend on the total number of eligible applications and the total requested amount. CalRecycle will attempt to fund as many projects as possible until all funds available have been exhausted.

If acquiring a property, do I have to pay for it up front and then get reimbursed?

Yes, all eligible costs associated with the Grant will be reimbursed. Costs incurred prior to the date that CalRecycle sends the Notice to Proceed email or after April 1, 2026, are ineligible for reimbursement. Refer to the Eligible Costs and Ineligible Costs section of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Application

Will separate applications be required for each location, or is a consolidated application an acceptable and practical alternative?

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Will this be pre-allocated in a general pool by recycling program type at the outset?

Not at this time. However, no individual project type (mobile recycling, reverse vending machines, or bag drops) may exceed 50% of the total appropriation of $73.3 million. No specific appropriation has been identified for future cycles.

Is there a limit to how much an individual can receive if they return for additional funding?

At this time, criteria have not been developed for future funding cycles.

Is there a limit to the number of applications an applicant can submit?

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Is there a deadline in which any remaining funds in the allocation for Certified Community Service Programs will be distributed to the project fund for dealers, existing and newly certified recycling centers?

A total of $40 million in grant funding is available in the current cycle. All allocations will be handled in the same application cycle. If all funds for Certified Community Service Programs are not awarded, the excess will be applied to eligible applications that were unable to be funded from the Dealers, Existing and Newly Certified Recycling Centers due to the requested amounts exceeding the allocated amount. Refer to the Funding and Available Funds sections in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can you share a full list of eligible non-infrastructure costs related to the 20 percent cap of the total award amount?

Examples of non-infrastructure costs are included in the Eligible Costs section in the Procedures and Requirements document.

Do certified recyclers, applying for projects, have a “sphere of influence?” We currently operate in one area of California but are working to expand with grocers in another area. Would this expansion be Rank 1 or Rank 2?

CalRecycle cannot determine ranking until we review complete and eligible applications per the Application Guidelines and Instructions document. CalRecycle will determine the appropriate rank based on the Evaluation Process outlined in the Criteria RFA.

Would reverse vending machine and bag drop programs by an applicant serving convenience zones in the Bay Area, Central Valley, and the LA Metro area be considered one project, three projects, or six projects?

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Is proximity to an unserved convenience zone by an applicant “certified and operational recycling center” a variable in evaluating an application? For example, does an unserved zone need to be adjacent to the applicant’s recycling center?

No, there is no requirement for an unserved zone to be adjacent to a recycling center. The RIG program does not limit a project’s reach.

Is there a limit to how many unserved convenience zones can be serviced by an applicant recycling center?

No, there is no limit to the number of unserved convenience zones serviced.

Once the unserved convenience zone is serviced by a recycling center, would it be considered “served”?

Yes. The convenience zone would be considered served once the recycling center begins operation in the zone.

Can we apply for multiple projects?

Yes. An applicant who is a Dealer, or Existing or New Certified Recycling Centers may submit an application that includes multiple project types and locations. The minimum grant award amount per application is $500,000. The maximum grant award per application is $3,000,000.

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

Do we have to apply for a new location when we get approved for the grant?

All locations for an eligible RIG project must be identified and included in the grant application. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Would each site have its own budget or is there a single budget per application?

There is only one Budget document required for each application and the Budget document is only applicable for the site locations included in the application.

What is the definition of “disadvantaged community” for purposes of being included in Sort A? What is the source of the definition?

Use Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment’s California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool CalEnviroscreen 4.0 to identify the disadvantaged community your project would benefit and include the census track number(s). Applicants designated in the top 25 percent of the CalEnviroscreen 4.0 may qualify as Disadvantaged Communities. CalEPA formally designated four categories of geographic areas as disadvantaged:

The CalEnviroscreen model is based on cumulative impacts, defined as: “Cumulative impacts means exposures, public health or environmental effects from the combined emissions and discharges, in a geographic area, including environmental pollution from all sources, whether single or multi-media, routinely, accidentally, or otherwise released. Impacts will take into account sensitive populations and socioeconomic factors, where applicable and to the extent data are available.” The model is made up of multiple components cited in the above definition as contributors to cumulative impacts. The model includes two components representing Pollution Burden – Exposures and Environmental Effects – and two components representing Population Characteristics – Sensitive Populations (e.g., in terms of health status and age) and Socioeconomic Factors. Please refer to the CalEnviroscreen 4.9 Report.

Will applications in Rank 1, Sort B receive funding before applications in Rank 2, Sort A?

Yes, applicants in Rank 1 will have priority ranking over applicants in Rank 2. Refer to the Evaluation Process of the Eligibility Criteria and Evaluation Process for the Redemption Innovation Grant Program.

What defines an ‘entity’ applying for the recycling innovation grant?

Eligible organizational types or entities include nonprofit organizations, local governments, private entities and for-profit businesses, public colleges and universities, and qualifying tribal entities. Also, the applicant needs to be one of the eligible applicant types (e.g., new or existing recycling center, dealer, or community service program (SP)). Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

If a jurisdiction applies for these grant funds, will the RVMs have to be owned by the grantee? I believe this is the case for the competitive Beverage Container Recycling (RBC) grant program and the City/County payment program.

Yes, the grantee retains ownership of any equipment purchased with grant funds up to five years from the term of the grant. Equipment acquired with grant funds, that is used for the purpose for which CalRecycle approved its purchase, must be used no less than five (5) years after the end of the grant term. Additionally, the property must remain in the State of California during this time. Lastly, the grantee may not transfer Title to any real or personal property, including equipment, acquired with grant funds to any other entity without the express authorization of CalRecycle. Refer to the Real and Personal Property Acquired with Grant Funds section in the Terms and Conditions document.

Can one large grocer with two stores apply for this grant for other locations?

Yes, a large grocer would be eligible to apply and operate a proposed RIG project at the other store locations.

Can our county apply to open a buy back center closer to town? Does it need to be a retail establishment? Can at least some of the retail establishments get together to do this as a group?

A county may apply to establish a recycling center but will need to include one or more of the eligible project types (RVM, bag drop, or mobile) to be considered for grant funding. The recycling center does not need to be a retail establishment. Dealers are eligible under the Redemption Innovation Grant Program. However, Dealer Cooperatives are not effective until January 1, 2025, and are ineligible for the initial round of the RIG Program.

Does CalRecycle provide assistance to recyclers in the application and grant writing process?

The grant application must be completed by the applicant. For instructions related to how to start the application process, please refer to Application Instructions, Application Access, and the Applications Submittal and Deadline sections in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can CalRecycle provide an example of how a single entity may submit multiple applications and be awarded up to $9 million?

One scenario is a single entity could submit three applications to open new RCs in three different unserved zones. Each application could seek $3 million each and this would cause that entity to reach their grant funding limit.

If an application is deemed ‘incomplete’ how soon will the applicant be notified? Will the applicant have an opportunity to resubmit ‘incomplete’ application with missing information?

All applications will be reviewed after the close of the application period. CalRecycle staff will review each application for completeness and eligibility. No resubmissions for incomplete applications will be allowed. Applicants will be notified after April 16, 2024. Applicants will not have an opportunity to resubmit incomplete applications after the application period is closed. The grant award is tentatively scheduled for August 2024. Refer to Timeline section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

Can CalRecycle please provide a list of the top 25 disadvantaged communities that will receive the highest scores for the grant applications?

Applicants whose projects will be located in a census tract that is designated in CalEnviroScreen 4.0 as being in the top 25 percent of disadvantaged communities, will be ranked above those projects in Rank 1, 2, and 3, respectively, that are not located in a disadvantaged community. Although disadvantaged communities will have priority in ranking, it will not be publicized. Refer to the Evaluation Process of the Eligibility Criteria and Evaluation Process for the Redemption Innovation Grant Program.

My boss is the owner, I am the office manager and will be overseeing some of these stages. Do we need to file a joint application?

Any entity applying would also need to be considered one of the eligible applicant types. Refer to the Eligible Applicants section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

An applicant may submit multiple applications, but a single entity may only receive up to $9,000,000.

With the applications, can the proposals identify the scope of work and areas of the services to be provided, with the exact locations to be provided within 90 days of the conditional approval? This will allow applicants the ability to find willing locations to participate knowing that funds have been conditionally approved.

The specific locations associated with the project must be identified in the application.

Can you provide a list of zones that are in disadvantaged, rural, and/or tribal communities?

For disadvantaged communities, applicants may utilize the California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool CalEnviroScreen 4.0 to identify the disadvantaged community your project would benefit and include the census track number(s).

Applicants may contact specific rural communities directly. CalRecycle does not provide a list of rural communities.

Applicants may contact a qualifying tribal entity directly. CalRecycle does not provide a list of qualifying tribal entities.

How does a Recycling Center applicant update application information between the application due date of April 16, 2024 and the tentative grant award date in August 2024? Does an applicant have an obligation to update application information if there are changes?

The applicant will be required to notify the Program contact for any application-related changes made between the application due date and the award date. Please contact BevContainerGrants@calrecycle.ca.gov for any updates.

Does software qualify as “Equipment” in the Budget tab in the GMS?

Yes, software qualifies as equipment related to the RIG project. However, the sole development of software is an ineligible cost. Refer to the Eligible Costs and Ineligible Costs sections of the Procedures and Requirements document.

Non-infrastructure costs are limited to 20 percent of the total award amount. How does this align with the categories in the “Budget” tab of GMS? Which categories (Admin Costs, Education, Equipment, Personnel) qualify as infrastructure costs?

Combined costs, include but are not limited to, permitting, personnel, public education/outreach, indirect costs, office space, property lease, and general administrative costs not related to construction or installation, shall not exceed 20 percent of the total amount requested. Refer to the Available Funds section of the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

For mobile recycling projects, should the “Site(s)” GMS tab identify the location where the materials will be processed? Please clarify how mobile recycling projects should complete this section.

All locations and project sites for an eligible RIG project must be identified and included in the grant application. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

For bag drop projects, should the “Site(s)” GMS tab identify the location of the bag drop, the location where bags of CRV materials will be processed by the Recycling Center, or both?

Both. The application must specify all locations and project sites for the RIG Program. This information is required to conduct a complete review and ranking of each eligible application.

Does a location need to be secured before receiving the NTP email?

All locations for an eligible RIG project must be identified and included in the grant application. Refer to the Eligible Projects section in the Application Guidelines and Instructions document.

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