Grants for Trucking Businesses: 2025 Funding Guide
Trucking companies face intense competition and high capital requirements for equipment. While direct grants for trucking are limited, significant funding is available through EPA clean diesel programs, DOT infrastructure programs, DBE certification for transportation contractors, state economic development grants, and SBA lending programs. This guide covers what is actually available for trucking businesses in 2025.
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Funding Programs for Trucking Businesses
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) | Up to $1,000,000 | Fleets upgrading diesel engines | epa.gov/dera |
| CARB (California only) | Up to $200,000/truck | CA-registered fleets | arb.ca.gov |
| DOT DBE Program | Contracting set-asides | Disadvantaged trucking contractors | State DOTs |
| SBA 7(a) Equipment Loans | Up to $5,000,000 | Creditworthy trucking businesses | sba.gov |
| SBA Microloan | Up to $50,000 | Small/startup trucking companies | sba.gov |
| State DOT trucking grants | Varies | State-licensed carriers | State DOT offices |
| USDA Rural Business Development | Up to $500,000 | Rural trucking businesses | rd.usda.gov |
| Workforce training grants | Varies | Trucking companies training drivers | State workforce agencies |
| FTA Low-Emission Transit Grants | Varies | Transit-related trucking | transit.dot.gov |
| CDFI Equipment Financing | Varies | Small trucking companies | cdfifund.gov |
Note: Most trucking business funding comes through equipment financing, contracting set-asides, and EPA emission programs rather than traditional grants.
EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) Grants
For trucking companies with older diesel fleets, EPA DERA grants are the most significant federal funding available.
DERA grant uses: - Replacing old diesel trucks with new, cleaner models - Retrofitting existing trucks with emission control technology - Anti-idling devices and auxiliary power units - Electrification of freight delivery vehicles
DERA funding structure: DERA grants flow through EPA regional offices and state agencies. National solicitations (EPA-administered) typically award grants to fleets replacing engines or trucks that meet specific age and emissions standards. State-level DERA programs (administered by state environmental agencies) may have different requirements.
Vehicles that qualify typically must be pre-2010 diesel engines. Awards cover 25–75% of replacement costs depending on vehicle type and location.
Where to apply: Visit epa.gov/dera for current national solicitations. Contact your state environmental or transportation agency for state-level DERA programs. EPA regional offices can also identify current opportunities.
California ARB Programs: For California-based fleets, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) administers Carl Moyer Program grants and Truck Loan Assistance Program funding for clean truck purchases. Awards can reach $200,000 per vehicle for qualifying electric or clean-diesel trucks. Visit arb.ca.gov/msprog/carl_moyer.
DBE Certification and Transportation Contracting
For trucking companies providing freight, hauling, or logistics services on DOT-funded projects, DBE certification opens significant contracting opportunities.
DBE for transportation contractors: Federal highway, transit, and airport projects funded by DOT require prime contractors to include DBE subcontractors. Trucking companies that haul materials, provide freight services, or support construction on DOT-funded projects can access substantial subcontracting revenue through DBE certification.
How to get DBE certified: 1. Contact your state DOT's Office of Civil Rights (every state DOT has one) 2. Complete the Uniform Certification Application (free) 3. Processing typically takes 60–90 days 4. Certification is free
What DBE certification requires: - 51%+ owned and controlled by socially/economically disadvantaged individuals - Personal net worth of controlling owners under $1.32 million - Business annual receipts under applicable size standards (for trucking, typically $30.0M)
SDVOSB for veteran truckers: Veteran-owned trucking businesses should also pursue SDVOSB certification through the SBA, which opens federal contracting preferences beyond DOT programs.
Workforce Development and State Programs for Trucking
CDL (Commercial Driver's License) training grants and workforce development programs are among the most accessible funding sources for trucking companies.
CDL training grants: Many states have CDL training grants for employers hiring new drivers. Programs typically reimburse $3,000–$15,000 per driver trained. Contact your state workforce agency or Workforce Development Board.
Federal Apprenticeship for trucking: Registered Apprenticeship programs for truck drivers qualify for DOL apprenticeship funding. Trucking companies that establish Registered Apprenticeship programs can access tools allowances and instructor support funding. Visit apprenticeship.gov.
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) opportunities: The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated significant funding for freight infrastructure. While most IIJA funds go to governments, trucking companies can position themselves as contractors on infrastructure projects and access DBE subcontracting opportunities.
State trucking grant programs: Many states have freight and transportation development programs. Contact your state DOT freight office and your state economic development agency. Some states have specific programs for: - Small carrier assistance programs - Port-related freight improvement grants - Rural freight development - Clean truck transition funding
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct grants for buying new trucks?
The most common direct grants for truck purchases are through EPA DERA programs (for replacing old diesel trucks) and California ARB programs. Most other 'grants' for trucking are equipment loans (SBA 7(a), SBA 504, or CDFI financing) rather than outright grants. DBE certification opens contracting revenue that effectively funds fleet growth.
What is the EPA DERA program and who qualifies?
The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program provides grants for replacing or retrofitting old diesel vehicles. Vehicles must typically be pre-2010 engine year and operated commercially. Grants cover 25–75% of costs. Apply through EPA regional offices or state environmental agencies. Visit epa.gov/dera.
How does DBE certification help a trucking company get more business?
DBE-certified trucking companies can work as subcontractors on DOT-funded construction and infrastructure projects. Prime contractors are required to meet DBE participation goals (typically 10–15% of project value) and actively seek DBE-certified trucking subcontractors for material hauling and logistics. This creates a consistent revenue pipeline on federally funded projects.
Can a minority-owned trucking company get special funding?
Yes. DBE certification (through state DOT), MBE certification (through NMSDC), and SBA 8(a) enrollment all open funding and contracting opportunities for minority-owned trucking companies. Contact your state DOT and local MBDA Business Center (mbda.gov) for programs specific to your location.
What SBA loan programs are best for trucking companies?
SBA 7(a) loans (up to $5M) are the most flexible for equipment, working capital, and expansion. SBA 504 loans (up to $5.5M) work well for real property (trucking terminals, facilities). SBA Microloans (up to $50,000) suit very small carriers just starting out. Find SBA lenders at sba.gov/lender-match.
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