Top: Image courtesy Institute for Local Self-Reliance

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) launched year two of the Composting for Community Mini-Grant Program to support new or existing local community composters in New England coastal states (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island) and — for the first time — New York City. The Mini-Grant Program focuses in particular on historically underserved communities, including Native Nations and neighborhoods affected by discrimination and exclusion. Applications from projects originating in these communities, including BIPOC-led or BIPOC-serving organizations, are welcomed. “With declining federal support for climate action and environmental justice, it’s vital to invest in local initiatives making an impact to combat climate change, divert food scraps, and build healthy soils in their communities,” notes ILSR. Up to 15 projects will be awarded $10,000 grants; the opportunity is made possible with support from 11th Hour Racing. Awardees also will receive virtual hot composting training, a travel stipend to attend the 9th National Cultivating Community Composter Forum in Sacramento, California, in February 2026, and access to ILSR’s Community Composter Coalition, a network of community composters that builds connections, spreads lessons learned and inspires new operations. The deadline for applying is July 25, 2025.