Renew America's Nonprofits Grant Program

Program eligibility

Eligible organizations

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) outlined specific eligibility criteria. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with documentation from the IRS. Eligible nonprofits must own the buildings to receive funds for energy conservation improvements and be able to provide documentation to MARC and DOE. The name of the building owner must match the IRS nonprofit name.

The nonprofit organization must provide support and services to disadvantaged people and communities within or from the building proposed for energy efficiency upgrades.

Program service area

The service area is limited to MARC’s nine-county region (Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Ray counties in Missouri, and Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami and Wyandotte in Kansas).  There is a preference for buildings that are located in or provide services to disadvantaged people living in areas. 

Eligible projects and activities

Eligible energy conservation improvements may include, but are not limited to:

• HVAC system replacement or upgrades to high performing units
• LED Lighting
• Energy system controls to regulate energy use within the building.
• Window and door replacement
• Building insulation
• All proposed project activities and equipment funded from the SCEP – Renew America’s Nonprofits Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0003066 must be among those listed in the National Environmental Policy (NEPA) determination letter. (while solar is listed as eligible by DOE, it is NOT eligible through this grant program.)

Other Improvements may be considered. The energy conservation measures will be determined by the building owner and through energy audits that confirm any improvements made will help achieve an annual energy savings of at least 15%. 

Renewable energy improvements such as solar are not eligible. The program will not support projects that require ground disturbance, and all buildings must meet any applicable national historic preservation requirements.

The Community Advisory Board may identify additional selection criteria to assist in identifying the non-profit organizations with the greatest need and potential to benefit from energy improvements.