Southeast New England Program Opportunity to Advance Resilience Fund
On this page:
- Background
- Eligibility
- Available Technical Assistance
- Connections to Other EPA, Federal or Non-Governmental Efforts
Background
The SNEP’s Opportunity to Advance Resilience Fund is a grant program designed to enhance the resilience of disadvantaged communities within the SNEP region. It focuses on engaging these communities in the planning and execution of projects aimed at reducing the effects of climate change and addressing longstanding environmental and social injustices. The SOAR Fund supports a wide range of projects that can help communities build their resilience and adaptive capacity, including planning, implementation, outreach, training, capacity building and staffing, all aligned with the objectives set forth in SNEP's Strategic Plan.
By 2050, SNEP’s vision for the region is achieving resilient ecosystems with safe and healthy waters, flourishing watersheds and natural landscapes and communities that are sustainable and adeptly prepared for the impacts of climate change.
Eligibility
Who is generally eligible to apply?
Eligibility to apply for the SNEP's Opportunity to Advance Resilience Fund extends to a variety of entities including state, local, and Tribal governments, hospitals that are operated by state, Tribal and local governments, public and private universities and colleges, public and private nonprofit institutions/organizations, interstate agencies and intertribal consortia. The geographic service area for this funding opportunity covers Rhode Island, Southeastern Massachusetts and the three Tribal nations within the SNEP region. Disadvantaged communities within the SNEP region are identified using a mapping application created by the program.
For specific details on eligibilities, applicant requirements and sub-award requirements, visit the SNEP SOAR Fund Programs website and current request for applications.
How can projects funded by this program incorporate adaptation and resilience considerations?
This SOAR Fund can help support climate resilience and adaptation projects with a focus on initiatives that enhance local capacities for project completion and policy adoption, broaden the range of available solutions and ensure diverse representation in local decision-making processes. Priority is given to projects that offer innovative ways to tackle common challenges and increase community leaders' awareness of the benefits associated with restoration projects. As a Justice40 covered program, proposals submitted to the SOAR Fund should aim to enhance climate resilience in disadvantaged communities, demonstrating a clear intended outcome of bolstering climate adaptability. These projects should also exhibit strong community support and a commitment to engaging with the community throughout the project's lifecycle.
Available Technical Assistance
The Funding and Technical Assistance for SNEP resource can assist applicants in developing proposals and implementing effective climate resilience and adaptation projects within the targeted geographic area.
The SNEP Network, a project of the New England Environmental Finance Center, provides training and assistance to municipalities, organizations and Tribes to advance stormwater and watershed management, ecological restoration and climate resilience in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
For additional information about the program, SNEP offers an informational webinar (recording and slides) that provide an in-depth overview of the SOAR Fund and its objectives. SNEP also provides a detailed frequently asked questions resource to further clarify program details.
Connections to Other EPA, Federal or Non-Governmental Efforts
SNEP is fortunate to have the input of regional experts from local and Tribal government, state and federal government, academia and nonprofit organizations to inform its policy, science and funding decisions. Each committee and subcommittee member plays a key role in the SNEP by bringing the expertise, experience and perspective of various governmental and nongovernmental organizations throughout the region. For more information on EPA-SNEP Program partners, visit the SNEP Program Partners webpage.
Support offered by the following programs can be used in combination with the SNEP to help build capacity for climate adaptation and resilience efforts within EPA Region 1.
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Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program: This program supports local stormwater and land protection projects in the watershed.
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Narragansett Bay Estuary Program: This program supports scientific research and analysis, capacity building, regional planning efforts and pre-implementation project development in its bistate watershed.