Unsewered Communities Grants
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Unsewered Communities Grants fund planning and construction of new wastewater systems in underserved Illinois communities.
Funder: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
Due Dates: Planning Grant: Rolling (open until funds expended) | Construction Grant: Anticipated FY2026 (watch program page)
Funding Amounts: Planning: up to $30,000 per applicant (based on MHI); Construction: up to $5,000,000 per project (based on MHI and project costs)
Summary: Supports Illinois local governments in planning and constructing wastewater systems for communities lacking adequate collection and treatment facilities.
Key Information: Applicants must pre-qualify annually via the GATA Grantee Portal before applying.
Description
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Unsewered Communities Grants provide funding to local government units in Illinois that lack adequate wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure. There are two grant tracks: the Planning Grant Program (UCPGP), which funds the development of comprehensive project plans, and the Construction Grant Program (UCCGP), which funds the design and construction of new wastewater systems. The grants aim to protect public health and the environment by enabling small and disadvantaged communities to address wastewater management challenges.
