Through the online tool, the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) hopes to ask you to provide only information that allows your project to be considered for advancement to the next review step. The process is structured in such a way that it recognizes the value of your time and resources. Although the OAQDA intends to give every project the maximum possible consideration, we also want to be quickly straightforward if our process determines a project will not compete successfully in this program.
Nearly the entire application process is completed online and all applications are to be submitted through the online tool found on the Program’s website.
Applicant Profile
Applicants will first create a user name and profile. The profile provides general information.
Letter of Intent
Applicants will then complete an initial Letter of Intent (LOI). The LOI is a brief project description is reviewed to determine whether the project meets the program criteria defined by statute (ORC 3706.25 and ORC 4928.621).
Following notification that the project is eligible, an application fee of $750 is required to partially defray the cost of the technical review of the proposal. All fees must be submitted via check made payable to: “Ohio Air Quality Development Authority.” The application fee must be received before gaining access to the next steps in the application process. The application fee is non-refundable whether or not the project is ultimately approved for funding. The check must be accompanied with a copy of the LOI that is signed by someone authorized to legally bind the applicant. An original signature, not a stamp, is required. You may print a copy of your LOI by logging into to your account here.
Part I Application
The Part I Application follows an approved LOI and allows a business, financial and technical evaluation based on guidelines and award criteria, as well as possible in-person interviews and site visits.
Part II Application
The Part II Application followings an approved Part I Application and involves due diligence on the part of the state. It serves as the basis for beginning loan negotiations.
Following review by the OAQDA staff and outside experts, projects are reviewed and recommended by the Development Finance Advisory Council, approved by the OAQDA and brought before the Controlling Board for final approval.
Assistance
Applicants are provided assistance throughout the process to advise on eligibility and discuss the details of the project. The goals are to:
- troubleshoot the online application tool;
- keep applicants from spending time on submissions ineligible for award;
- steer applicants to other sources of public funding, if applicable; and
- help applicants better align eligible submissions with the guidelines and award criteria of the program.
Please feel free to also review the FAQ page for answers to commonly asked questions. It is updated regularly.