SRF Support for Disadvantaged Communities

DACs are eligible for grants, principal forgiveness, reduced interest rates, and technical assistance from the CO SRF to support project planning and implementation.

Financial Support

DACs may receive SRF support to reduce project costs, including:

  • Principal forgiveness, a portion of the loan that does not need to be repaid
  • Planning and design grants to support early project development
  • Reduced interest rates based on financial need

Funding amounts and eligibility vary based on project type, priority scoring, and available funds.

In addition to WaterNow’s Colorado SRF TA Program, the CO Dept. of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) offers no-cost assistance to DACs to help plan, develop, and implement SRF-funded projects:

Support for smaller drinking water systems (serving 10,000 or fewer) includes:

  • 1:1 training and coaching
  • Coordination with EPA-supported TA providers to help with project development and funding readiness
  • Operator training and support to address system needs

Support for publicly-owned wastewater systems in rural and underserved communities includes:

  • Project identification
  • Technical, managerial, and financial coaching
  • Operator training

Priority Scoring for DACs

The CO SRF uses a priority scoring system to evaluate and rank project applications. This score helps determine:

  • When your project can apply for funding
  • The interest rate offered
  • Eligibility for additional subsidies, such as principal forgiveness

Higher scores are more competitive and may receive more favorable financing terms. Scoring considers public health, affordability, regulatory compliance, sustainability, and readiness to proceed. Specific criteria and thresholds vary by program and are updated periodically in the SRF Intended Use Plans.