MPCA grants are now open for projects that will reduce volatile organic compounds (VOC) at a variety of Minnesota-based organizations.  Potential projects include switching to water-based or low-VOC solvents, inks, coatings or cleaners, or buying alternative process equipment or vehicles. These projects not only save money, but also help protect employee and community health.

Whenever we use paints or solvents, the fumes are both familiar and often unpleasant.  What you’re smelling are VOCs, chemicals widely used in our homes and commerce.  They have effects on both human health and the environment. Besides the smell, VOCs are significant air pollutants that help form smog and can harm people who breathe them. 

Because they are so widespread, VOCs are important to efforts to improve air quality.  The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) offers grants to help businesses upgrade to alternative products or processes that put fewer VOCs into the air. 

Eligible applicants include:

• Businesses with under 500 employees (e.g. manufacturers, printers, industrial finishers, automotive, metal casting, etc.)
• Non-profits
• Trade groups or associations
• Government agencies
• Educational institutions.

More than 20 Minnesota organizations have received $660,000 in previous grants to reduce VOCs. These projects reduced about 18 tons of VOCs annually, equal to more than 72,000 cans of spray paint. Learn about past proj­ects at www.pca.state.mn.us/voc.

The maximum grant award is $24,000 with a 50% required match. Deadline for grant applications is May 18, 2018 by 4:30 p.m. The most cost-effective projects will score highest. Special consideration will be given for innovative projects from targeted applicants in environmental justice and highly urbanized areas. To review grant materials and the short application form, visit the MPCA’s website. If you have application questions, contact Eric David at eric.david@state.mn.us or 651-757-2218.