EPA Launches Climate Resilience and Adaptation Funding Toolbox
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced a new tool to support climate resilience efforts: the Climate Resilience and Adaptation Funding Toolbox (CRAFT). Designed for technical assistance providers, CRAFT simplifies the process of applying for and implementing climate-resilient investments. With resources tailored to federal funding applicants and recipients, the website aims to help users integrate climate adaptation strategies into their projects from start to finish. By considering climate risks early, applicants can make informed decisions, ensuring that federal dollars are used wisely and efficiently to build long-term resilience.
CRAFT provides a range of tools to guide users, from climate risk analysis and project design to community engagement strategies, including:
- Program overviews of EPA’s financial assistance programs where climate-safe investment opportunities are available.
- Climate risk tools and decision support resources that can inform the development, design and implementation of projects.
- Communications materials to facilitate discussions about adaptation, resilience and environmental justice.
- Meaningful engagement resources on how to perform targeted community engagement efforts effectively and intentionally when implementing climate-smart projects.
- Definitions of common terms to use during technical assistance consultations, engagement efforts and the development of project proposals.
By aligning federal funding with goals like flood resilience and nature-based solutions, CRAFT supports efforts to protect vulnerable communities while addressing the growing challenges of climate change.
Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)
In other EPA news, the agency’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program announced 2024 Notices of Funding Availability (NOFAs), including $7.5 billion in credit assistance.
The 𝗪𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗔 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 offers long-term loans to help communities implement critical water infrastructure projects, which protect public health, deliver environmental benefits, and support local economies, for a lower cost. Through WIFIA program financing, borrowers have the ability to combine multiple projects into a single loan and access flexibilities that include interest rate resets, debt sculpting, and fast disbursements. Any States, cities, tribes, utilities, and other public and private entities seeking financing for their water infrastructure projects can submit a letter of interest at any time. Learn more about WIFIA funding
