2024 WV Brownfields & Main Street Conference

The Environmental Finance Center (EFC) at the University of Maryland advances finance solutions to environmental challenges throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. EFC has several direct technical assistance programs (three of which will be focused on in this session) available to communities throughout West Virginia that can equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to create more sustainable environments, more resilient societies, and more robust economies. This session will inform attendees about the different programs and how to request support through them.

The Water Technical Assistance (Water TA) Program offers direct support to municipalities and water utilities to help them access federal and state funding to address water infrastructure needs. The program aims to increase the number of communities that can successfully access water infrastructure funding to ensure safe, reliable water systems for all. Assistance is available at any step in the process of pursuing water infrastructure funding, including identifying water challenges; developing plans; building technical, financial, and managerial capacity; and completing funding application materials. Projects can span drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, source water protection, nonpoint source, decentralized wastewater (e.g., septic systems), and/or Financial Capability Assessment (FCA) assistance.
 
The Building TMF Capacity for Small Water Systems Project works to build the Technical, Managerial, and Financial (TMF) capacity for small wastewater systems throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. In coordination with our national Environmental Finance Center Network we provide a variety of training tools, opportunities, and direct technical assistance to allow access for any water system personnel regardless of their often rural and remote locations.
 
The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers Program aims to provide grant funding to eligible applicants for the establishment of technical assistance centers nationwide. UMD EFC helps coordinate this initiative in the Mid-Atlantic region. These centers offer critical support to communities facing environmental justice concerns. If you are interested in working with our community hub partner West Virginia State University (WVSU) to support work in the Appalachian region, we are here to help connect you.