California Air Resources Board

What does it fund?

STEP funds a variety of clean transportation and supporting projects, such as public transit and shared mobility services, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, urban greening, land use planning and housing policy, workforce development, and clean transportation planning and education. For a list with more detailed examples of eligible project types, visit CMIS and STEP FY 22-23 RFA, “Eligible and Ineligible Projects and Costs.”

What are the possible incentive amounts? 

CARB has not set minimum or maximum grant amounts for STEP in past solicitations. Previously awarded grants have ranged between $3 million and $14 million. No new funding is currently available.

Who is eligible for funds?

Community-based organizations, local governments, and tribes that serve priority populations throughout California.

Are there recent policy changes?

In the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Request for Applications, STEP expanded eligibility to low-income communities, not only disadvantaged communities, and all tribes, not only federally recognized tribes. This change was made to make STEP grants available to more communities across California. 

How does this program provide benefits to priority populations?

STEP grant projects must benefit priority populations and center residents’ expertise through all phases of project implementation. Projects improve quality of life in these priority communities by making it easier to get around without a car, lowering travel costs, reducing traffic-related air pollutants, and providing workforce development opportunities pollutants.

How do I access funds?

Eligible entities apply through a competitive Request for Applications; however, no new funding is currently available. The 2023 Request for Applications is available for reference.

Funding Sources

• Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund
• General Fund