Transit Operating Grant
We distribute state and federal operations funding to eligible rural, small urban, and tribal transit providers.
How it works
State rules require us to collect and consider specific information to allocate funding and award contracts. The information is needed for funding decisions, required for the Management Plan, and/or used in compliance monitoring and contract awards. The details for each item are included in a table within the instructions as well as the Checklist document.
Eligibility
Existing systems
Transit systems that received the grant in 2025 are eligible for the 2026 grant.
New systems
Your system must provide transit services to the public. Email Noel Shughart to initiate a competitive grant process for your proposed service area.
Timeline
- May 1, 2025: Application period opens
- April 17, 2025: Application guidance webinar
- June 30, 2025: Applications deadline
- Fall 2025: Operating awards announced
Application period
This solicitation is now closed. The application period will open May 1, 2025.
After you apply
- We'll review your application for compliance.
- We'll announce initial allocations in fall 2025.
- We'll email award contracts in fall 2025.
- You'll need to sign your contract and return it to us within 45 days from receipt.
- Funding is available Jan. 1, 2026.
Reporting requirements
If we award you funds, you must submit the following reports:
- Monthly Operating Budget
- Monthly Ridership Statistics (service level and passenger stats)
- Annual Vehicle Statistics Report (VSR)
For the Monthly Operating Budget and the Monthly Ridership Statistics, you'll complete the reports in BlackCat Transit Data Management System and submit them 30 days after the month of reporting. Work with your transportation program manager to complete these reports.