A new $396 million federal initiative is creating powerful opportunities for Pennsylvania manufacturers to modernize their operations, reduce emissions, and strengthen competitiveness. Through the Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania (RISE PA) program, small and mid-sized manufacturers may be eligible for grants of up to $500,000 to cover 50% of total project costs, including equipment, labor, and related costs. The application process for these funds requires an Energy Assessment by a qualified Assessor. Catalyst Connection will provide these assessments at no cost to the company.
Funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants, RISE PA is designed to help manufacturers reduce greenhouse gas emissions while improving energy efficiency and operational performance. With $40 million allocated specifically to support manufacturers in Pennsylvania, the program will fund high-impact projects that advance sustainable manufacturing practices and drive long-term cost savings.
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify, manufacturers must operate active facilities in Pennsylvania with fewer than 500 employees. Projects must aim to reduce industrial emissions through strategies such as:
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Electrification of systems and processes
- Integration of low-carbon or renewable fuels
- On-site renewable energy installations
- Carbon capture technologies
- Reduction of fugitive or process-related emissions
What’s Covered?
Projects may focus on upgrading core energy systems such as boilers, compressed air, HVAC, motors, lighting, process heating, or refrigeration. Waste reduction and resource efficiency initiatives are also eligible—providing an added path to operational improvements and cost reductions.
Why Act Now?
This is a competitive grant program, and funding will be awarded to applicants with the most compelling, impactful projects. Manufacturers are strongly encouraged to begin preparing now to ensure readiness when applications open in 2025. A required first step is the completion of a qualified site assessment to identify energy savings and emissions reduction opportunities. These assessments also provide valuable insights that can help strengthen your grant application and prioritize investments that offer the greatest return.
Benefits of Participation
- Up to $500,000 in funding to support capital improvements
- Reduced energy and operational costs
- Enhanced environmental performance and compliance
- Increased market competitiveness and supply chain appeal
- Accelerated progress toward sustainability and carbon reduction goals
This grant opportunity comes at a critical time for manufacturers facing rising energy costs, increasing regulatory pressure, and growing customer demand for sustainable practices. RISE PA funding can help de-risk your next capital investment and ensure that your facility is equipped for the future of manufacturing.
Get Started
The path to funding starts with a site-level assessment and strategic planning. Now is the time to identify potential projects and prepare for a strong application.
Don’t leave money on the table.
If you're planning facility upgrades, considering equipment modernization, or aiming to reduce your carbon footprint, this is the time to act.
For more details on how to qualify and prepare for the RISE PA Grant Program, visit https://www.wemakeithere.org/rise-pa/