Grants

DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): eligibility, deadline, and how to apply (2026)

Updated October 2026 5 min read

Key Facts

Agency
Department of Energy (DOE)
Award Range
$214,057 to $28,945,471
Deadline
Formula allocation (no application window)
Time Remaining
No application window: funds are allocated by formula to states, territories and tribes, which fund local weatherization agencies.
CFDA Number
81.042
Bottom line: The DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides $214,057 to $28,945,471 in funding through the Department of Energy (DOE). Reduces energy costs for low-income households by improving the energy efficiency of their homes through weatherization measures such as insulation, air sealing, and heating system upgrades.

The DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Department of Energy (DOE). This guide covers everything you need to know to determine whether you qualify and how to submit a competitive application through the government that receives the formula allocation.

Use our free Grant Finder to discover additional programs you may be eligible for based on your organization type and location.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for the DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), applicants must meet the following criteria:

State governments and tribal organizations that distribute funds to local weatherization agencies. Individual homeowners apply through local agencies. Details from the rule (10 CFR 440.16(b)): Priority is given to identifying and providing weatherization assistance to: (1) Elderly persons; (2) Persons with disabilities; (3) Families with children; (4) High residential energy users; and (5) Households with a high energy burden.

Eligibility requirements can change between funding cycles. Always verify the current criteria on the official program page before beginning your application.

Not sure your organization qualifies? Run the free Grant Finder check → or compare other Energy programs by who can apply.

How to apply: step by step

  1. Know how the money flows. This program allocates funds by formula to eligible governments. Individuals, businesses and most nonprofits cannot apply to the federal agency directly.
  2. Find the recipient near you. Contact the state, city or county agency that receives the allocation and ask how it passes funds to local projects, often through its own application or a public planning process.
  3. Read the official program page. It explains who receives allocations and how the funds may be used.

For detailed guidance on writing a winning narrative, see our grant writing tips article.

Grant details

Detail Information
Grant Name DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Funding Agency Department of Energy (DOE)
CFDA Number 81.042
Award Minimum $214,057
Award Maximum $28,945,471
Deadline Formula allocation (no application window)
Category Energy
Matching Required No matching funds required from states. Local agencies may leverage other funding sources
Application Link Official program page

Federal grant budgets and priorities shift each fiscal year. The amounts listed above reflect the most recent funding cycle. For the latest figures, check the official program page.

If you are exploring business financing beyond grants, the team at CeoCult covers loans, lines of credit, and alternative funding for founders.

Get the free grant eligibility screener worksheet (PDF)

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Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for the DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)?

State governments and tribal organizations that distribute funds to local weatherization agencies. Individual homeowners apply through local agencies. Details from the rule (10 CFR 440.16(b)): Priority is given to identifying and providing weatherization assistance to: (1) Elderly persons; (2) Persons with disabilities; (3) Families with children; (4) High residential energy users; and (5) Households with a high energy burden. Requirements can change between cycles, so always verify on the official program page before applying.

What is the deadline for DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)?

The current deadline is not applicable: funds are allocated by formula to states, territories and tribes, which fund local weatherization agencies. Many federal grants operate on annual or rolling cycles. If this deadline has passed, check the program page for the next funding opportunity.

Does DOE Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) require matching funds?

No matching funds required from states. Local agencies may leverage other funding sources. Matching requirements can vary by fiscal year and applicant type, so confirm with the funding agency before committing resources.