Merger/Regionalization Feasibility Grants
Forecasted
Merger/Regionalization Feasibility Grants support water and wastewater utilities in studying system consolidation or physical interconnections to assess regional service and improve long-term viability.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Fall funding round)
Funding Amounts: Up to $75,000 per year to the same applicant; projects completed within 24 months of the funding letter
Summary: Grants fund studies of water and wastewater system consolidation and physical interconnections for regional service.
Key Information: Only local government units and nonprofit water corporations are eligible applicants.
Description
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Infrastructure funds feasibility studies that help water and wastewater utilities assess regional approaches to service. Studies can evaluate consolidating two or more systems into one or physically interconnecting with another system for regional wastewater treatment or water supply.
The program was created to encourage utilities to become more viable and proactive in managing and financing their systems. It supports evaluation before a utility decides whether to pursue a merger or connection. Project activities may include meetings, investigations, and analyses of technical, managerial, or financial opportunities to improve service for the applicant and partnering utilities.
