Information Session, March 10, 2026
DEEQ hosted an information session for their $2 million Reduce Reuse Reimagine grant program, focusing on reducing exposure to toxic substances in building materials within Oregon's built environment. The session covered eligibility requirements, application processes, and project examples for the 2026 funding cycle.
Summary
The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) conducted a comprehensive information session for their Reduce Reuse Reimagine grant program on March 10, 2026. The program has $2 million available, with $500,000 specifically prioritized for Oregon's nine federally recognized tribes. Projects must range from $25,000 to $225,000 and be completed within two years.
This year's funding focus is "built for well-being" - specifically reducing exposure to toxic substances in building materials. The program defines building materials broadly to include both basic materials (concrete, wood, steel) and finished products (cabinets, lighting, furniture). The built environment encompasses workspaces, recreational areas, transportation infrastructure, and community gathering spaces.
Eligible entities include local governments, nonprofits, tribal nations, public institutions, and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The application process involves a pre-application phase (March 23 - April 30) followed by full applications for selected projects (due July 30), with awards announced in late 2026.
The program emphasizes thinking about toxic substances in terms of chemical families rather than individual compounds, encouraging projects that address classes like flame retardants, antimicrobials, and PFAS. Example projects include creating standards for healthier materials, training programs for construction workers, and developing alternative building materials.
Several restrictions apply: funds cannot be used for legally required activities, private home improvements, or general cleaning products. The program focuses on prevention and exposure reduction rather than waste diversion or remediation activities.
Key Insights
- DEQ's grant program has $2 million available with $500,000 specifically prioritized for Oregon's nine federally recognized tribes
- The program defines building materials broadly to include both basic materials like concrete and wood, as well as finished products like cabinets and furniture
- DEQ encourages thinking about toxic substances in terms of chemical families rather than individual compounds, such as considering all phthalates rather than just BPA
- Projects focusing on exposure reduction and prevention are prioritized over waste diversion or landfill reduction activities
- The built environment scope includes not just buildings but anywhere people work, play, move around, and gather in communities
- Funds cannot be used for private homes, but organizations serving the community through home improvement work may be eligible if serving multiple homes
- Scale matters significantly in project evaluation - projects affecting multiple homes or locations are more competitive than single-location efforts
- The program uses reimbursement-based funding with some components available for upfront funding on a case-by-case basis
Topics
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