This session explores models for funding Zero Waste Solutions through community-led participatory funding, state-level public funding, and private funding through 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.
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: Food waste reduction is one of the most impactful climate solutions, delivering environmental, economic, and community benefits. This session explores two catalytic approaches accelerating progress in this space. The Composting Consortium’s Grant Program—developed in partnership with NGO collaborators—supports municipal and private composters in expanding infrastructure and innovation to divert food waste and compostable packaging from landfills. We’ll also break down the investment ecosystem ReFED has built to support food waste solutions, including data tools, capital tracking, the Food Waste Funder Circle, and its Catalytic Grant Program—a regranting platform that mobilizes capital and fosters collaboration. Together, these two organizations demonstrate how strategic grantmaking can unlock innovation, scale proven solutions, and inspire new pathways for climate action.
Moderator: Heather Trim, Executive Director, Zero Waste Washington
Speakers:
Sunni Hutton, Co-Director of Grants & Fundraising, Sow Joy Peoples Fund
Michael Looney, Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection
Paula Luu, Senior Project Director, Center for the Circular Economy at Closed Loop Partners