Pennsylvania manufacturers have a powerful opportunity to access transformative funding through the Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania (RISE PA) program. Funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants, this $396 million statewide initiative supports projects that cut greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency upgrades, electrification, low-carbon fuels, and renewable energy. Administered by PennTAP, the Small Award Track (SAT) is designed to help small- and mid-sized manufacturers take meaningful steps toward a more efficient, cost-saving, and sustainable future. Applications for Round 2 are open now through December 15.

“We were thrilled by the quality and variety of applications from Round 1,” said PennTAP Rise PA Program Manager Olivia Yost. “Through the RISE PA grant program, these companies are not only reducing emissions and realizing cost savings but also positioning themselves for long-term resilience and growth. It’s a win for our PA businesses, communities, and the environment.”

“Momentum for this program is building across Pennsylvania,” she continued. “We are eagerly anticipating the announcement of awardees from Round 1 and are excited to see even more innovative ideas in future rounds.”

Why Apply Now

The SAT is tailored for manufacturers with fewer than 500 employees and projects ranging in cost from $50,000 to $1 million. These projects often include lighting retrofits, HVAC upgrades, compressed air optimization, and other lower-cost, energy-saving improvements. While they may be smaller in scope, projects like these can deliver significant operational savings and environmental benefits.

Eligible applicants can receive base grants covering up to 50% of total project costs, with awards of up to $500,000. Additional bonus funding is available for projects that demonstrate community benefits and fair labor practices, helping even modest projects achieve a greater impact.

PennTAP Support: From Concept to Completion

PennTAP is committed to helping manufacturers identify opportunities and navigate the RISE PA application process with confidence. Our team provides:

• No-Cost Technical Assessments: PennTAP’s Pollution Prevention & Energy Efficiency (P2/E2) assessments identify energy-saving opportunities and quantify potential cost reductions. A Technical Assessment Report, which results from an assessment, is required for all RISE PA SAT applications and serves as a critical first step toward grant eligibility. In addition to PennTAP, several other organizations are partnering with RISE PA to carry out no cost or low-cost technical assessments. Refer to the RISE PA information on our website for details.
• Application Assistance: The PennTAP RISE PA team offers resources, templates, and guidance to help simplify the process and support applicants in completing their submissions.
• Weekly Office Hours: Join our knowledgeable staff for RISE PA Office Hours, held every Wednesday from October 15 to December 10, where manufacturers can speak directly with our team, ask questions, and get tailored support. Register for upcoming sessions.

Take the First Step Today

If you’re a Pennsylvania manufacturer with 500 or fewer employees, now is the time to explore how RISE PA can benefit your operations. PennTAP is ready to help you turn energy savings into lasting sustainability gains and to help secure the funding to make it happen.

Reminder, the current application round is open through December 15.

Learn more, schedule your assessment, and start your application at penntap.psu.edu/rise-pa.