USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP): eligibility, deadline, and how to apply (2026)
Key Facts
- Agency
- US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Award Range
- $1,500 to $500,000
- Deadline
- Paused
- Time Remaining
- Applications are paused: USDA rescinded the funding notice on April 15, 2026 and will reopen after a new rule.
- CFDA Number
- 10.868
The USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is a federal funding opportunity administered by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). This guide covers everything you need to know to determine whether you qualify and how to submit a competitive application once the program reopens.
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 USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), applicants must meet the following criteria:
Rural small businesses and agricultural producers in eligible rural areas (population under 50,000). Applicants must own or control the facility where the project will be installed.
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
- Register on SAM.gov. Every federal grant applicant needs an active SAM (System for Award Management) registration. Allow 2-4 weeks for new registrations to process. Existing registrations must be renewed annually.
- Get a UEI number. Your Unique Entity Identifier is assigned through SAM.gov and replaces the old DUNS number. You will need this on every federal application.
- Review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Download the full NOFO from the program page. Pay close attention to review criteria, budget limits, and required attachments.
- Prepare your application package. Most federal grants require a project narrative, budget justification, organizational capacity statement, and supporting documents. Follow the page limits and formatting rules exactly.
- Submit through the system the NOFO names. Some agencies use Grants.gov and others use their own portal. Submit once the program reopens; late applications are usually rejected.
- Confirm receipt. Keep the tracking number or confirmation email, and check back in 1-2 business days that your application passed the validation checks.
For detailed guidance on writing a winning narrative, see our grant writing tips article.
Grant details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) |
| Funding Agency | US Department of Agriculture (USDA) |
| CFDA Number | 10.868 |
| Award Minimum | $1,500 |
| Award Maximum | $500,000 |
| Deadline | Paused |
| Category | Energy |
| Matching Required | Yes, applicants fund at least 75% of project costs: under the standing rule (7 CFR 4280.115) REAP grants cover up to 25%. Applications have been paused since April 15, 2026 |
| 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.
Check your fit for Energy grants like this one before you apply: eligibility, match and registration in one worksheet.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)?
Rural small businesses and agricultural producers in eligible rural areas (population under 50,000). Applicants must own or control the facility where the project will be installed. Requirements can change between cycles, so always verify on the official program page before applying.
What is the deadline for USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)?
The current deadline is paused: USDA rescinded the funding notice on April 15, 2026 and will reopen after a new rule. Many federal grants operate on annual or rolling cycles. If this deadline has passed, check the program page for the next funding opportunity.
Does USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) require matching funds?
Yes, applicants fund at least 75% of project costs: under the standing rule (7 CFR 4280.115) REAP grants cover up to 25%. Applications have been paused since April 15, 2026. Matching requirements can vary by fiscal year and applicant type, so confirm with the funding agency before committing resources.