The EPA’s Small, Underserved, and Disadvantaged Communities (SUDC) Grant Program, authorized under the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, provides funding to help communities address drinking water quality challenges. Recent updates have expanded the program’s flexibility, including the use of point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) devices.
Role of POU/POE Devices
States and their subgrant recipients (such as small water systems or communities) can use EPA grant funds to deploy POU/POE devices even if they are not the system-wide compliance technology. This change allows for:
- Targeted deployment of certified water treatment devices
- Faster response to acute water quality issues
- Cost-effective solutions for communities unable to afford large-scale infrastructure upgrades
Who Can Apply?
Only states and U.S. territories may apply directly to the EPA for funding. However, they may award subgrants to:
- Small public water systems
- Nonprofit organizations
- Local governments
- Tribal communities
What WQA Members Can Do
While companies cannot apply for these grants directly, WQA members can play a vital role by:
- Educating state officials about the benefits of POU/POE devices
- Partnering with local communities to provide certified solutions
- Promoting awareness of the grant program and its new flexibility