The FTA Section 5310 program supports transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities by funding projects that improve mobility. If you're a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) provider, this grant can help cover costs for scheduling software, routing tools, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) . Here's how to navigate the process:
Who Qualifies : Nonprofit organizations, local governments, private for-profit NEMT providers (offering shared rides), and Indian tribes are eligible.What’s Covered : Capital expenses like vehicles, software, and equipment, as well as operating costs for services that go beyond ADA requirements.Funding Breakdown : Capital projects require a 20% local match; operating expenses need a 50% match. Administrative costs can be 100% federally funded.How to Apply : Identify your designated recipient (e.g., state DOT or MPO), prepare a Program of Projects (POP), and submit a complete application with budget details and proof of local coordination.
Who Qualifies for the FTA 5310 Grant
FTA 5310 Grant Funding Match Requirements by Project Type
Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to understand who can access FTA 5310 funding. These funds are distributed from direct recipients , like state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), to eligible subrecipients that provide transportation services.
Eligible Organizations
Direct recipients include State DOTs and Designated Recipients, which are organizations appointed by governors in large urban areas. These can include Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) or transit agencies. They receive formula funding directly from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and oversee how the funds are distributed within their regions.
Subrecipients are the entities that apply to direct recipients for funding. For traditional Section 5310 projects, private nonprofit organizations are the main applicants. State or local government authorities can also qualify if they are approved to coordinate transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities or if they certify that no nonprofit organizations are available in their area.
For nontraditional projects, the eligibility pool broadens significantly. Private for-profit Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) providers can qualify if they operate as public transportation providers. This means offering shared-ride services that are open to the general public or specific groups, such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, or low-income populations. Additionally, private taxi companies offering shared-ride services may qualify for nontraditional projects.
Federally recognized Indian tribes also have a unique option. They can apply directly to the FTA for funds that have already been allocated to a state, local government, or designated recipient.
Every project funded through this program must be part of a coordinated local transportation plan . This plan must involve seniors, individuals with disabilities, and representatives from public, private, and nonprofit transportation providers, as well as human services organizations. Without inclusion in this plan, a project cannot receive FTA 5310 funding.
Now that eligible organizations are clarified, let’s explore the types of projects and expenses that qualify for funding.
Approved Projects and Expenses
The FTA 5310 program focuses on improving mobility for older adults and individuals with disabilities, especially in areas where public transportation is limited or unavailable. Funded projects fall into two main categories: traditional capital projects and nontraditional capital and/or operating projects that go beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
Traditional capital projects cover essential items like vehicles and related equipment. This includes buses, vans, wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement devices. Transit IT systems, such as scheduling, dispatch, and fare collection software (e.g., advanced NEMT scheduling tools), are also eligible under this category.
Mobility management programs are another form of capital expense. These programs focus on coordinating transportation services and may include operational planning for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) technologies like GPS, dispatching, tracking, and smart payment systems.
Nontraditional projects provide even more flexibility. Examples include NEMT services, travel training programs, volunteer driver initiatives, accessibility upgrades to transit stations, enhanced paratransit services beyond ADA requirements, accessible taxi and ride-sharing programs, and voucher systems for transportation services. Both capital and operating expenses for these projects are eligible.
At least 55% of program funds must support capital projects that address the unique needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities. The remaining 45% can be used for other purposes, including both capital and operating expenses. Additionally, up to 10% of the total funding may be allocated for administration, planning, and technical assistance, fully funded by the federal share.
While understanding eligible expenses is vital, grasping the matching fund requirements is equally important for a successful application.
Matching Funds Requirements
FTA 5310 grants require applicants to provide local matching funds, with the amount varying based on the project type. For example, capital projects require a 20% local match, while operating expenses demand a 50% match. Some accessibility investments may need only a 10%–15% match. Administrative, planning, and technical assistance expenses are covered entirely by federal funding.
Project Type
Federal Share
Local Match Required
Capital Projects (e.g., NEMT software , vehicles)
80%
20%
Operating Expenses (e.g., driver salaries, fuel)
50%
50%
Accessible Vehicles (CAA compliant or accessible)
85%
15%
Accessible Vehicle Equipment/Facilities
90%
10%
Administration, Planning, Technical Assistance
100%
0%
Local match funds can come from various sources, such as state or local appropriations, dedicated tax revenues, private donations, revenue from service contracts, or other federal programs (when allowed). Securing and documenting these funds early in the process strengthens your application and demonstrates your organization’s commitment to the project.
How to Apply for the FTA 5310 Grant
Once you've determined your eligibility and funding requirements, the application process boils down to three main steps: identifying your grant recipient, preparing your Program of Projects (POP), and submitting your completed application.
Find Your Grant Recipient
The first step is to identify the agency responsible for your application, which depends on your area's population size. For rural areas (under 50,000 residents) and small urbanized areas (50,000–200,000 residents), the state Department of Transportation (State DOT) is your direct recipient. For large urbanized areas (populations exceeding 200,000), the direct recipient is a designated recipient chosen by your state’s governor. This could be a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), a transportation provider, or another relevant agency.
To find your contact, refer to the National RTAP 's list of 5310 Program websites, which provides state-specific details about program administrators. For example, in Minnesota, the State Department of Transportation (MnDOT) serves as the direct recipient. Subrecipients, like the Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, apply through MnDOT to access funding. Reach out to your recipient promptly to confirm requirements, submission timelines, and any state-specific guidelines.
Create Your Program of Projects (POP)
Your Program of Projects (POP) is a strategic document detailing how you plan to use the grant funds. Each project must align with your locally coordinated public transit–human services transportation plan. This planning process should involve seniors, individuals with disabilities, and key stakeholders in transportation and human services.
When drafting your POP, keep the funding allocation rules in mind: at least 55% of the funds must support traditional capital projects designed specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The remaining 45% can be used for other eligible purposes, including both capital and operating expenses. Additionally, up to 10% of the total funding can be allocated for administration, planning, and technical assistance, which may be funded at a 100% federal share. If you’re including costs for NEMT (Non-Emergency Medical Transportation) software, such as scheduling or dispatch systems, categorize these as capital improvements and clearly explain how they address mobility challenges for your target populations.
Once your POP is ready, you can move on to assembling your application package.
Submit Your Application
Submission deadlines and methods vary depending on your state and designated recipient. For instance, in June 2025, the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG) in South Carolina announced a call for applications, with a submission deadline set for July 18, 2025, at 3:00 PM. They accepted applications via mail or email at courtneyc@bcdcog.com.
Before submitting, make sure you’ve obtained your Unique Entity ID (UEI) from SAM.gov , as DUNS numbers are no longer accepted. Your application package should include all required documents, such as the Section 5310 Application Form, the SF-424 Federal Form, a detailed budget with matching funds, a project timeline, and proof of inclusion in your coordinated plan. If you have any questions, reach out to your 5310 Program Manager for guidance.
Required Documents and Budget Planning
When applying for FTA funding, it's crucial to ensure your documents and budget align perfectly with the program's requirements. Every piece of your application must meet the Minimum Application Responsiveness Requirements, as applications falling short of these standards won't even be scored. To stay organized, consider using the "Application Checklist" provided by the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC). This tool can help you track essential requirements, tasks, and deadlines throughout the process.
Application Documents Checklist
Your application should include several key documents: a completed Grant Application Fillable PDF, the Guidance & Application Instructions, and proof that your project is part of a locally developed, coordinated public transit–human services transportation plan. These documents need to be current and fully completed. Additionally, include evidence of community input, showing how older adults, individuals with disabilities, and other stakeholders contributed to shaping your proposed projects. For detailed program administration and application requirements, refer to the FTA's Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program Guidance, C9070.1H.
How to Structure Your Budget
Your budget must adhere to the FTA's funding allocation rules. Specifically, at least 55% of the grant should be allocated to capital projects benefiting seniors and individuals with disabilities. You can dedicate up to 10% of the total funds to administrative costs, which can include planning, technical assistance, and other program-related expenses. If you're budgeting for NEMT software - like scheduling or dispatch systems - classify these as capital improvements. Clearly label each expense category in your budget, such as software purchases, matching funds, implementation costs, training, and hardware. A well-organized budget not only ensures compliance but also strengthens your application.
Project Timeline and Milestones
FTA Section 5310 funds are available for use over three fiscal years (the apportionment year plus two additional years). Your project timeline should fit within this window and clearly outline how you'll meet the grant's objectives. Establish realistic start and end dates for each phase of your project, such as procurement, software implementation, staff training, and system testing. Include checkpoints to track progress, like "Month 3: Vendor selection completed", "Month 6: Software installation finalized", and "Month 9: Staff training completed and full operations launched." These milestones not only keep your project on track but also demonstrate feasibility and accountability to grant reviewers.
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How to Improve Your Application
Once you’ve prepared your application package, the next step is making it as competitive as possible. A winning application doesn’t just meet the basic requirements - it shows thoughtful planning and demonstrates clear value. To stand out, focus on three critical areas: showcasing measurable improvements, proving your financial commitment, and building strong connections with decision-makers.
Highlight ADA Compliance and Operational Improvements
Make sure to include specific, measurable data that illustrates how your project improves operations and expands access for seniors and individuals with disabilities. For instance, you could highlight how automating scheduling reduces manual work from 20 hours to just 5 hours per week, saving hundreds of administrative hours annually. Show how these changes reduce the workload, increase shared ride opportunities by optimizing seat usage, and lower costs through better route planning.
Explain how the software directly addresses transportation barriers, offering greater mobility options for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Features like automated ADA compliance checks, personalized dashboards for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), and tools for generating National Transit Database (NTD) reports can all help secure ongoing funding. Including charts or diagrams to visually present these projected outcomes can make your case even stronger. Be sure to tie these improvements back to the core mission of the FTA 5310 program: enhancing mobility for underserved populations.
Once you’ve outlined these operational benefits, shift your focus to demonstrating your financial readiness.
Prove Your Matching Funds
Clearly documenting your local matching funds is a critical part of your application. Make sure your match meets the FTA’s requirements and provide detailed information about each funding source, including confirmation letters. Start identifying your sources early - state funds, contributions from local governments, or private donations can all count toward your match.
You can also explore federal fund braiding, which allows you to use federal funds from other agencies to meet your local match requirements. The Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility (CCAM) Federal Fund Braiding Guide provides step-by-step instructions for using this strategy. Additionally, remember that up to 10% of administrative costs can be covered at a 100% federal share, meaning no local match is needed for that portion.
Once your funding is secured, it’s time to connect with key decision-makers to ensure your project aligns with their priorities.
Reach Out to Grant Recipients Early
Get in touch with your designated recipient as soon as possible. For rural areas, this is typically your state Department of Transportation, while for large urban areas, it’s an entity chosen by the governor. These recipients have flexibility in selecting subrecipient projects and can provide valuable guidance on their specific selection criteria.
Ask about any earlier deadlines for supporting documents, such as Letters of Intent or partner recommendation letters, which may be due well before the main application deadline. Understanding how your designated recipient administers the program will help you tailor your proposal to their priorities and local coordination plans. Reaching out early shows your commitment and builds trust in your ability to successfully execute the project, ultimately improving mobility and service quality for underserved communities.
Next Steps for Your FTA 5310 Application
After submitting your application through Grants.gov , keep your tracking number handy to monitor its status throughout the review process. The designated recipient - often your state Department of Transportation or another authorized agency - will first review your application to ensure it’s complete. Once verified, it moves to an evaluation team for scoring.
Sometimes, grant applications require multiple attempts. If your proposal isn’t selected, don’t get discouraged. Request detailed feedback from reviewers and address their concerns in your resubmission. Including a short section in your revised application that explains how you’ve acted on their suggestions can strengthen your chances.
During the review process, grant administrators may reach out with questions about your matching funds, budget details, or references to your coordination plans. To respond quickly, keep your records well-organized. Essential documents like insurance papers, certifications, and letters from your Regional Planning Commission can be crucial for clarifications. While waiting on a decision, it’s also a good idea to start preparing for project implementation.
If your application is approved, deploying the right tools can amplify the impact of your grant. For example, Bambi ’s AI-powered software, available at $69 per vehicle per month, helps automate scheduling, optimize routes, and generate National Transit Database reports. This not only supports the FTA 5310 program’s mobility goals but also demonstrates ongoing value to grant administrators.
Staying organized and responsive throughout the process sets you up for success. Whether this is your first submission or a revision based on feedback, focusing on the implementation steps that drive measurable improvements in service delivery will help you meet your program objectives and make the most of your funding.
FAQs
How do I create a Program of Projects (POP) for an FTA 5310 grant application?
To create a Program of Projects (POP) for your FTA 5310 grant application, start by crafting a thorough and organized plan. This should include an evaluation of community needs, a well-defined project scope, clear objectives, a practical timeline, and a carefully planned budget. Make sure to involve key stakeholders in the process and ensure the project aligns with local transit and human services plans.
Clearly document the selection criteria used for the project and confirm that every element meets the FTA's requirements. Once finalized, submit the POP following the FTA's specific guidelines to ensure compliance and boost your chances of approval.
How can private NEMT providers qualify for FTA 5310 funding?
Private NEMT providers can apply for FTA 5310 funding if they offer transportation services tailored to seniors and individuals with disabilities. To qualify, they need to either be acknowledged as subrecipients or partner with organizations included in a coordinated transportation plan.
To strengthen their application, providers should showcase how their services improve mobility, align with local transportation goals, and adhere to the eligibility requirements set by the designated recipient or state agency. Importantly, all projects must be part of a locally developed, coordinated plan to ensure they address essential community needs.
What local matching funds can be used for the FTA 5310 grant?
Local matching funds for the FTA 5310 grant can be drawn from several sources. These include federal funds from non-DOT programs , Medicaid waivers, Older Americans Act (OAA) Title IIIB Supportive Services Funds
However, it’s crucial to verify that each funding source aligns with the grant’s requirements. Don’t overlook local and state-level programs, as they could also qualify as matching funds.
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