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Funding Available to Support Community-Driven Mutual Aid Efforts

In response to COVID-19, Seattle Public Utilities is providing a one-time funding opportunity to support mutual aid efforts that make hygiene resources more accessible to the public, reduce illegal dumping and litter, and avoid the wasting of food and other materials.  

A total of $150,000 is available in funding. We expect to award two to three projects. Applications are due on Friday, May 7.   

SPU seeks proposals from community organizations to lead small-scale and rapid innovations delivered at diverse locations around Seattle. SPU expects successful applicants will partner with other organizations and individuals to maximize their innovation’s impact.  

What We Fund   

  • Innovation Area 1: Waste prevention solutions focused on food and other materials. Examples include sharing, reusing repairing, and repurposing.  
  • Innovation Area 2: Hand hygiene and water access solutions, which may include options for accessing safe drinking water, for individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Learn more and find application materials here. 

Eligible Applicants  

Community, non-profit organizations, and schools are all eligible to apply for the SWWI funding and may issue sub-contracts as part of their application. All applicants must be incorporated as a non-profit or, if an individual or unincorporated entity, have another mechanism for receiving funds (e.g., through fiscal sponsorship) and complying with insurance and liability requirements.   

Learn more about the funding opportunity during an information webinar on Tuesday, April 13 between 6:00pm and 7:30pm: 

A recording will be posted after the information session.  

Contact Kate Morrison with questions about your ideas or application at Catherine.Morrison@seattle.gov or call/text 206.735.5629.