How to Apply
TEF supports the community through three ongoing programs: Transit Pass Program, Microgrants, and Demonstration Projects.
In October 2022, TEF is also offering an Emergency Abbreviated Transit Pass RFA.
2022 Emergency Abbreviated Transit Pass RFA
In October 2022, TEF is offering an emergency abbreviated RFA to apply for transit passes at no-cost. These additional free passes will be distributed to organizations to assist low-income riders over the next four to six months while a longer-term solution is identified. The Transit Empowerment Fund will fulfill as many requests as possible within its own limited resources and will partner with CapMetro to determine how much, if any, of the additional demand can be met.
Through this RFA, TEF partners are asked to estimate the number of passes their organization could distribute per month to meet the full need. Since we understand that some organizations are rationing the number of passes due to their limited resources, this RFA is an opportunity to indicate monthly demand for no-cost passes.
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All TEF partners are encouraged to complete the RFA–even if they currently do not need additional passes—in order for TEF and CapMetro to hear from as many TEF distributors as possible about their pass supply and monthly demand. |
Passes must be used for individuals who are at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, are transit dependent, and reside within the Capital Metro service area. Upon award, participating agencies are required to report on distribution of passes monthly to TEF.
This RFA is now closed. Applications were accepted from October 7, 2022 through October 20, 2022.
Transit Passes
TEF offers eligible 501c3 organizations, tax exempt veteran organizations, and governmental entities with discounted and free transit passes. The purpose of passes is to empower individuals to access employment, education, healthcare, or social services.
Passes must be used for individuals who are at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, are transit dependent, and reside within the Capital Metro service area. Upon award, participating agencies are required to report on distribution of passes quarterly to TEF.
Demonstration Projects
The Transit Empowerment Fund (TEF) Board seeks letters of interest (LOI) for planning or demonstration projects designed to address transportation gaps for low-income transit dependent populations within the CapMetro Service area. The Board is interested in learning about projects that: (1) address a demonstrated need in the community; (2) leverage existing resources or partnerships efficiently; and (3) could be sustained through follow-on funding after the demonstration period.
The Board will consider both planning (up to $25k for 12 months) and demonstration (up to $50k, 12-36 months) projects.
The request for letter of interest (LOI) is currently closed.
Microgrants
Microgrants are intended to support a single event or project that meets the TEF mission of empowering people by increasing access to transit options. Microgrants may also be used to address a short-term need for transit passes in special circumstances. The maximum grant award is $1,000. To learn more about the Microgrant program and eligibility criteria, please click here.
To submit an application, please complete the form on this page. Applications will be reviewed by the TEF Board on a quarterly basis: in January, April, June, and October.