The state of Colorado is unique in many ways. One particular way the Colorado Public Health and Environment’s water quality control division (WQCD) distinguishes itself from other states is through its Capacity Development Program. The EPA requires states to aid water providers in implementing continuous improvement measures. These efforts ensure that as federal and state requirements evolve and new regulations are adopted in response to emerging discoveries about our water sources, water systems will readily adapt to the changes to proactively protect public health. Through this program, the Local Assistance Unit (LAU) provides one-on-one coaching sessions and various training opportunities to develop Operator knowledge, available as a free resource for water systems throughout Colorado.
In an effort to provide financial assistance to public drinking water systems, LAU is excited to announce the return of the 2027 Assistance Grants Program!
LAU is seeking water systems that could use up to $30,000 to make significant progress to address a regulatory or water quality challenge. All public water systems are eligible for these funds.
Awarded projects must be completed within the 2027 calendar year.
- The application period will close on October 13, 2026.
- Total funding is $150,000.
- Successful grantees will receive a maximum of $30,000.
- All public water systems are eligible; a Public Water System Identification (PWSID) number is required.
- If you do not know your PWSID, please visit the Monitoring Schedule linked here for more information on your water system.
This grant provides financial assistance for systems that need help reaching or exceeding compliance requirements or systems addressing a water quality challenge. The Program primarily funds infrastructure projects or requires systems to address operational and administrative improvements, such as emergency response plans, main break response procedures, cybersecurity, and storage tank inspection plans.
If there is a water system that could benefit from this grant, please submit a 2027 Assistance Grants Application linked here and spread the message!
If you have questions about the application, please complete the live Assistance Grants 2027 Questions form linked here by October 6, 2026.
For more information on the program, visit the Assistance Grants FAQ linked here.
If you need coaching assistance or classroom training opportunities for your water system, please refer to the Local Assistance Unit’s Training opportunities, recognition, and resources for water systems webpage.
For more information on other available water grants, please visit the Water Quality Grants webpage or email cdphe.wqcd.watergrants@state.co.us.
➽ Priscila Lopez - Drinking water coach and Excellence Program Manager
