Grant Program (Rolling)
🏛 Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation
Can you apply?
This grant is for public transportation organizations seeking reimbursement for training and professional development. Eligible applicants include FTA Section 5311 and 5310 recipients and public transit operators in small urbanized areas. The program covers courses, workshops, seminars, driver roadeos, and conferences related to public transportation, paratransit, and human services transportation. Scholarship funds reimburse up to 100% of eligible expenses and cannot be used for lobbying activities.
Program description
The RTAP program makes scholarships available to reimburse organizations for courses, workshops, seminars, driver roadeos, and conferences with subject matter applicable to public transportation, paratransit, and human services transportation. Eligible applicants are FTA Section 5311 and 5310 recipients, as well as public transit operators in small urbanized areas that have the same training and technical assistance needs as transit providers in nonurbanized areas. Scholarship funds may not be used for lobbying activity. Reimbursement is up to 100% of eligible expenses.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- FTA Section 5311/5310 grant agreement or proof of eligible status
- Course or event registration confirmation
- Itemized cost documentation
- Description of training relevance to transit operations
Program contact
- 👤 Katy Miller
- 📧 katy.miller@drpt.virginia.gov
- 📞 (804) 972-4596
FAQ
Who can apply for RTAP scholarships?
FTA Section 5311 and 5310 recipients can apply. Public transit operators in small urbanized areas with similar training needs as nonurban providers are also eligible.
What expenses can be reimbursed?
The program reimburses courses, workshops, seminars, driver roadeos, and conferences related to public transportation. Reimbursement covers up to 100% of eligible expenses.
Can funds be used for lobbying?
No. Scholarship funds cannot be used for any lobbying activities or advocacy work.
How often can I apply?
The program operates on a rolling basis with no specified deadline, so organizations can submit applications throughout the year.
What documentation is typically needed?
Applications usually require proof of eligible organization status, course/event details, associated costs, and a description of relevance to your transit operations.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Verify your organization qualifies as an FTA Section 5311/5310 recipient or eligible small urbanized area transit operator before applying.
- Choose professional development directly tied to public transportation operations, paratransit, or human services transportation for strongest applications.
- Document all course and event costs upfront so reimbursement requests are complete and processed quickly.
- Rolling deadlines mean you can apply year-round; don't wait for a specific submission window.
- Keep records of how the training or professional development improved your transit operations or staff capabilities.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applying without confirming FTA Section 5311/5310 recipient status or eligible small urbanized area designation. Submitting reimbursement requests for training not directly related to public transportation, paratransit, or human services transportation operations. Including unallowable expenses like lobbying activities or personal travel without clear operational justification.
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