The SGIA program is an annual, competitive solicitation open to state, local, regional, and tribal governments (and non-profits that have partnered with a governmental entity) that want to incorporate smart growth techniques into their future development.

Once selected, communities receive direct technical assistance from a team of national experts in one of two areas: policy analysis (e.g., reviewing state and local codes, school siting guidelines, transportation policies, etc.) or public participatory processes (e.g., visioning, design workshops, alternative analysis, build-out analysis, etc.). The assistance is tailored to the community's unique situation and priorities. EPA provides the assistance through a contractor team — not a grant. Through a multiple-day site visit and a detailed final report, the multi-disciplinary teams provide information to help the community achieve its goal of encouraging growth that fosters economic progress and environmental protection.

EPA initiated the SGIA program in 2005 with three goals in mind:

1. To support communities interested in implementing smart growth policies;
2. To create regional examples of smart growth that can catalyze similar projects in the area; and
3. To identify common barriers and opportunities for smart growth development and create new tools that other communities can use.

Applying for SGIA

EPA announces a new Request for Applications (RFA) about once a year, depending on budget constraints. The solicitation will be open for 45 days. This year’s RFA is available on the EPA's website; it will close on May 8, 2008.