Brownfields and Land Use Technical Assistance

Groundwork USA is committed to supporting community-led brownfield and land reuse efforts nationwide. 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 brownfield and land reuse 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 community-centered project a success!

 

Through our Nonprofit Assistance Program, we can help you: 

 

A community park in Lawrence, MA

Understand the Brownfields Reuse Process

We will guide you through the brownfield revitalization process! Learn how reimagining and reusing land makes a real difference in your community.

Integrate Data, Storytelling, and Community Voice Insights Into Planning to Programming 

We can help you integrate insights from the broadest range of stakeholders to ensure you are maximizing the potential social, health, environmental, and economic impacts of your project.

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 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 pursuing land reuse projects through 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. 

Applications Reopen in 2025

 

 

The Land Reuse 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 land resue opportunities.

Check Out The Cohort Here!

Thriving Communities Grantmaking

The EPA’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program aims to make it easier for small community-based organizations to access federal funding to address environmental concerns in their communities. Groundwork USA works as part of the Eastern National EJ-ERG to remove barriers and improve accessibility to federal funding for community-based organizations.

Access TCGM Here!

Community Resilience 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.

Check Out The Hub Here!

 

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, and hone your leadership skills through project management and implementation workshops. 

View Upcoming Events!