Orange County Waste & Recycling (OCWR) has announced the extension of the application deadline for its Regional Recycling and Edible Food Recovery Grant Program to May 15, 2026, at 4:59 pm. The decision follows significant interest from organizations throughout Orange County.

Launched on March 2, 2026, this competitive five-year grant program is designed to enhance edible food recovery infrastructure and align with California’s Senate Bill (SB) 1383, which focuses on reducing landfill waste and promoting food recovery. The program aims to foster collaborations with Edible Food Recovery Organizations (EFROs), nonprofits, and local jurisdictions to increase surplus food recovery and support innovative recycling initiatives.

“The strong response to this program reflects our community’s commitment to reducing food waste and expanding edible food recovery,” said Tom Koutroulis, Director of OC Waste & Recycling.

The grant provides up to $6 million over three fiscal years, with a maximum of $2 million available annually. Individual project awards can reach up to $500,000. Funding distribution includes an initial payment of 50 percent within the first three years and subsequent reimbursements on a quarterly basis.

Eligible projects encompass a range of activities, including the development of new edible food recovery programs, infrastructure for cold storage and transportation, data-tracking technology, and community education efforts.

Application Submission Deadline: May 15, 2026, at 4:59 pm.

Interested applicants can find more details and application materials at www.OClandfills.com/grants.

OC Waste & Recycling manages one of the leading solid waste disposal systems in the nation, promoting recycling and resource recovery across Orange County’s 34 cities and unincorporated areas. For further information, visit www.OClandfills.com.