Technical Assistance Services
Groundwork USA is committed to promoting equity and environmental justice in land reuse initiatives. Through our Nonprofit Brownfields Assistance Program, we work with nonprofits of all sizes to help integrate land reuse strategies into their mission-centered work and advance equitable brownfield projects that transform underutilized spaces into parks, trails, urban farms, and other community assets.
Whether you are new to the brownfields process or looking to fine-tune your approach, we want to help make your equity-driven project a success!
Through our Nonprofit Brownfields Assistance Program, we can help you:
Understand and Navigate the Brownfields Reuse Process
We can help you understand the brownfield revitalization process and learn how land reuse projects align with your nonprofit’s mission and community goals.
Incorporate Equitable Development Principles & Best Practices
We can help you integrate equity and environmental justice best practices into every phase of your project—from planning to construction and programming.
Build Partnerships and Inclusive Engagement Strategies
We can help you craft strategies to engage diverse stakeholders, build relationships with local entities, and form coalitions to advocate for land reuse priorities.
Manage Brownfield Site Risks and Challenges
We can help you conduct comprehensive environmental assessments, collaborate with regulatory agencies to navigate institutional restrictions, and effectively manage site risks during redevelopment.
Navigate The Funding Landscape
We can help you identify diverse funding sources, form strategic partnerships, and analyze progress metrics to ensure ongoing financial support.
program success stories
“In 2021, the East Canfield Village neighborhood experienced flooding due to the breakdown of the municipal sewer system. Groundwork USA researched and provided a framework of methods that our community could adopt to deal with rainwater overflow and activating vacant alleyways. Canfield Consortium’s partnership with Groundwork USA built capacity for our organization and supported our growth as environmental advocates for the development of a healthy and thriving East Canfield Village neighborhood.”
“The community stakeholders of Paris, Kentucky, began working towards the goal of closing down an existing incinerator and transfer station in the West Side Neighborhoods of Paris. Beginning in 2021, Groundwork USA served as a trusted convening resource for us. Thanks to the work of Groundwork USA, our community is now better organized, resourced, and energized by the myriad partnerships coming to the aid of our community.”
Our PROGRAM Services
Technical Assistance
Our technical assistance team offers *free* customized strategy, tools, and peer support for those in brownfield-affected communities seeking a more inclusive planning and redevelopment agenda in which everyone can prosper. Whether you’re looking to run your ideas by an expert or want long-term support as you develop your strategy, we can help!
Applications have closed for this cycle but will reopen in January 2025.
The Land Reuse and Environmental Justice Learning Cohort
This new initiative is a FREE six-month virtual program designed to help nonprofit organizations effectively lead brownfield site reuse projects. Through monthly interactive small group workshops and individual coaching calls, participants will gain the knowledge, skills, and network needed to lead impactful brownfield projects that align community priorities and environmental justice goals.
Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program
The EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program aims to make it easier for small community-based organizations to access federal funding to advance environmental justice in their communities. Groundwork USA works as part of the Eastern National EJ-ERG to remove barriers and improve accessibility to federal funding for underserved communities with environmental justice concerns.
Equitable Development Resource Hub
Looking for some ready to implement tools and guidance? Our resource hub includes best practices, case studies, videos, and how-to guides for every stage of your project.
Free Workshops & Webinars
Join our tailored webinars and workshops designed for nonprofits and community organizations. Explore everything about brownfields in our “Brownfield Curious” webinars. Get inspired by real stories about successful brownfield redevelopment. Enhance your skills with training on incorporating environmental justice and equity into your brownfield initiatives.
