By Kendra Wilkerson, SC Rural Infrastructure Authority
Municipal governments balance many competing needs and priorities every day. Those that run water and sewer systems have an added layer of considerations: regulatory compliance, public health, environmental protection, customer affordability and capacity for growth, to name a few. Sometimes, mounting challenges force utility leaders to focus on reacting to problems as they happen, with little time left to take a proactive approach to big-picture needs and plans. If this sounds familiar, keep reading to learn about the SC Rural Infrastructure Authority’s new Viability Improvement Program, which offers a unique combination of technical assistance and grant funding designed to put utilities on a path to long-term success.
Who can participate?
The Viability Improvement Program is open to public water and sewer utilities serving no more than 10,000 people. Around two-thirds of South Carolina’s utilities fall into that size category, and compared to larger utilities, they are more likely to struggle financially and to run into issues with SC Department of Environmental Services or Environmental Protection Agency compliance. A larger utility could be considered if it is located in a Tier III or IV county and can demonstrate significant challenges.
The program is designed for utilities that struggle with long-term viability concerns. Applicants of all sizes need to show at least one warning sign such as repeated regulatory compliance violations, inability to complete routine financial audits, unusually old infrastructure or socioeconomic challenges in the community served.
How it works
The VIP takes a progressive, three-step approach. First, a team of experts conducts a broad assessment of the utility’s technical, operational, financial and management needs and concerns. Then, the team drills down into the key issues identified to develop a plan of action with specific recommendations and workable solutions tailored specifically to the participant.
In the first two steps, the utility receives direct technical assistance led by an engineering consultant that RIA has already procured. In the final step, RIA will provide up to $2 million in noncompetitive grant funding for the most critical capital improvement needs that will have the greatest impact on long-term viability.
The key to succeeding in the VIP is active participation from local leaders throughout the process. In fact, the council or utility board must pass a resolution supporting participation in the program. Before and during the initial assessment, participants will need to provide the information they have about the system, such as existing infrastructure, financials or compliance history. To remain in the program, utilities will have to show continuing commitment to improvement, including progress on the recommendations made by the consulting team.
Applications
For those who think the VIP may be right for your utility, be sure to apply by July 1, 2026, and provide a map of your system if you have one. The council or board resolution must also be submitted with the application. Find the application and resolution template at ria.sc.gov/vip.
RIA continues to offer competitive grants for water, sewer and stormwater improvements. Program requirements and application deadlines for fiscal year 2026-27 will be published in July 2026. We encourage you to contact your regional grant manager for assistance in developing potential projects for grant funding. For contact information and program details, visit ria.sc.gov.