This session explores models for funding Zero Waste Solutions through state-level public funding, private funding through catalytic philanthropy, and community-led participatory funding.
Public Funding: The Connecticut MMI (Materials Management Infrastructure) Grant Program, managed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), provides grants to Connecticut municipalities and regional entities for waste diversion and waste management infrastructure. The $15 million program, launched in early 2025, supports projects such as composting, food waste collection, materials reuse, and infrastructure for hard-to-recycle items, with regional collaboration and a clear waste reduction strategy being prioritized for funding.
Catalytic Philanthropy: Many funders want to support climate solutions, but it’s not always easy to know where to start. When it comes to food waste reduction – a top solution for the climate, as well as the economy and our communities – ReFED has developed a range of resources to support funders through education, collaboration, and ultimately investment. From their initial data analyses identifying the hotspots with the most potential for progress, to their online resources tracking capital investments over time, the Food Waste Funder Circle affinity network, deal flow reports, pitch sessions, and the Catalytic Grant Fund – which offers granting and regranting opportunities for vetted organizations – ReFED has built an ecosystem to facilitate investment in food waste solutions. This presentation describes ReFED’s model as a case study to inspire other organizations to create their own resources powered by catalytic philanthropy.
Participatory Funding: Sow Joy Peoples Fund (SJPF) is a community-led participatory fund, that provides capacity-building, community, & uses creative funding solutions to support groups meeting the direct needs of community, advocating locally, & building systems outside of capitalism. Groups funded include BIPOC environmental justice groups embedded in community carrying out the work of propping up a local food shed, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing waste going to the landfill. Community makes the decisions on how funding is distributed, where & how funding is acquired, & informs movement strategy. This presentation enables participants to model a creative funding framework to support community-based environmental, climate and zero-waste solutions.
Moderator: Heather Trim, Executive Director, Zero Waste Washington
Speakers:
Michael Looney, Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection
Angel Veza, Director of Innovation, ReFed
Sunni Hutton, Co-Director of Grants & Fundraising, Sow Joy Peoples Fund