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2026-2027 Small Business Advantage Grant Program Now Accepting Applications

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has officially opened the application window for the 2026-2027 Small Business Advantage Grant Program. Applications were accepted starting September 11, 2026, and the application period will close on March 19, 2027, or when all program funds are committed.

This competitive reimbursement grant is designed to help Pennsylvania’s small businesses enhance their competitiveness while simultaneously improving the environment. Project work for eligible applicants must start on or after July 1, 2026, and must be completed by June 30, 2027.

Funding Opportunities

The Small Business Advantage Grant provides reimbursement grants ranging from 50% to 80% of eligible project costs to Pennsylvania small businesses. Funding is tiered based on the environmental impact of the project and whether the business is located in an Environmental Justice Area in Pennsylvania. Maximum grant award amounts vary:

  • Up to 50% of eligible project costs or $7,500 (whichever is less).

  • Up to 80% or $12,000 for projects that achieve significant environmental savings and are located in Environmental Justice areas.

Eligibility & Requirements

To qualify for funding, applicants must be a for-profit business registered in Pennsylvania with 100 or fewer full-time employees. Eligible applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Projects must save the small business a minimum of $500 and at least 20% annually in energy consumption or pollution prevention-related expenses. Natural Resource Protection projects are exempt from this financial savings requirement.

Eligible Projects

The grant funds projects that improve energy efficiency or prevent pollution or waste by upgrading or replacing equipment, improving processes, or reducing runoff into affected waterways. Common project types include:

  • Lighting (LED upgrades).

  • High-efficiency HVAC systems and boilers.

  • Digital medical imaging equipment (such as x-rays and scanners).

  • Truck retrofits to reduce idling or improve aerodynamics.

  • Agricultural or non-agricultural runoff control and natural resource protection.

Application Process & Project Resources

The Small Business Advantage Grant application is designed to be a do-it-yourself process for business owners. When applying through the Commonwealth’s Electronic Single Application system, you will need to utilize the official DEP Grant Calculator to verify your equipment costs and calculate your annual energy and pollution savings. Step-by-step instructions and program guidelines are provided directly on the DEP website.

If you are unsure where to start or want to identify which equipment upgrades would yield the best return on investment for your facility, consider reaching out to your local electric utility provider. Many utility companies offer free or heavily subsidized small business programs, including on-site energy assessments and audits, which can help you identify eligible energy-saving projects before you apply.

Ready to Apply?

Jeremy Hancher

Jeremy Hancher is the EMAP Program Manager located at the Widener University SBDC.  He holds over 15 years of experience in environmental compliance, environmental policy, and program management.  He is proud to be the team lead of the award-winning EMAP program which provides free and confidential environmental assistance to the Pennsylvania small business community in fulfillment of the requirements of the Pennsylvania Air Pollution Control Act and Section 507 of the federal Clean Air Act.
In 2015, Jeremy was part of the team effort when EMAP was recognized by US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy for Outstanding Accomplishments by a State Small Business Environmental Assistance Provider in Providing Technical Environmental Assistance to the Small Business Community. Jeremy holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a certificate from the Wharton School.