Brownfields RLF Workshop Series

Starting in 2026, Grow America and ICMA will host a new, no-cost, in-person training series for EPA Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) grantees nationwide. Hosted in four different regions, this hands-on workshop series brings the Brownfields RLF teams together for focused learning, practical exercises, and peer-to-peer exchange. Each of these workshops will take place over a day and a half and will provide attendees with core knowledge on working effectively with developers, project pipeline development, underwriting approaches, and RLF process and policies.

Designed for both new and experienced RLF grantees, these workshops will include hands-on instruction through real-world scenarios, insightful EPA RLF success stories, and peer-learning opportunities with other EPA RLF Teams.

Registration for each of these workshops is national, and participants can select their preferred workshop based on geographic distance or on calendar availability. Please note that each event will have a similar set of workshops; attending multiple workshops may be duplicative for attendees. Additionally, we encourage RLF grantees to bring multiple team members or stakeholders to increase knowledge sharing and implementation following the workshop. There is no cost for participants to attend.

Louisville, Kentucky Workshop

April 21-22, 2026 @ The Seelbach Hilton Louisville (500 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202)

With projects such as the Lynn Family Stadium and the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, Louisville has a strong track record of success in revitalizing brownfield sites. Join Grow America, ICMA, and Louisville Metro Government for our first Brownfields RLF workshop to dive deep into critical issues for EPA RLFs and connect directly with other EPA RLF grantees.

  • Complete your free workshop registration at this link to secure your spot. Space is limited!
  • Apply for a travel scholarship at this link by April 3, 2026.
  • The lodging deadline has been extended! Book your lodging at this link by April 5, 2026.
  • Review our preliminary workshop agenda.

Portland, Maine Workshop

May 28-29, 2026 @ Holiday Inn Portland – By the Bay (88 Spring St, Portland, ME 04101)

As a result of New England’s long industrial history, new brownfields redevelopment strategies and tools have been explored and modeled to bring new life to these sites. In Maine, you see these strategies through projects like Thompson’s Point in Portland and many paper and textile mill redevelopment projects across the state. Join Grow America and ICMA for our second Brownfields RLF workshop to dive deep into critical issues for EPA RLFs and connect directly with other EPA RLF grantees.  

New Orleans, Louisiana Workshop

October 6-7, 2026 @ The Intercontinental New Orleans (444 Saint Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130)

The City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana have collaborated on significant large-scale brownfields redevelopment projects, including the current project to transform the former Naval Support Activity Complex into mixed-use affordable housing. Join Grow America and ICMA for our third Brownfields RLF workshop to dive deep into critical issues for EPA RLFs and connect directly with other EPA RLF grantees.  

Clark County, Nevada Workshop

December 8-9, 2026 @ AC Hotel Symphony Park Las Vegas (330 S Grand Central Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89106)

With projects such as the Maryland Parkway High Capacity Corridor and Symphony Park, the state of Nevada, Clark County, and the City of Las Vegas have demonstrated effective brownfield redevelopment that benefits residents by creating new assets, including transit, housing, and public spaces. Join Grow America and ICMA for our fourth Brownfields RLF workshop to dive deep into critical issues for EPA RLFs and connect directly with other EPA RLF grantees.  


Interested in sponsoring?

We offer a range of sponsorship opportunities, from supporting the full series as a National Sponsor to sponsoring an individual workshop. Any level of sponsorship provides valuable visibility among local, regional, and state decision‑makers nationwide who are helping advance critical brownfield redevelopment projects.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I register for the event?
    Online registration is open for some of the workshops, and the remaining workshops will open registration within the next few weeks. You can register at the workshop registration link listed below the workshop you’d like to attend above. If you haven’t already, join our online platform to be notified when registration is live!
  • I have questions about registration or housing. Who should I ask?
    For questions regarding registration or housing, please contact Travis Childrey at tchildrey@icma.org.
  • Is there a cost to attend the workshop?
    There is no fee to register or participate; simply complete the registration form for your preferred workshop to secure your spot.
  • Will there be travel assistance available?
    A limited number of travel scholarships will be available for each workshop to cover lodging for the two nights at the event hotel. An online form will be available soon to apply for a scholarship to the desired workshop. Additionally, RLF grantees can use their award to cover event participation and travel costs.
  • I want to attend multiple workshops. Is that possible?
    Each workshop will offer similar topics and activities, while featuring inspiring local speakers and examples. We recommend selecting one of the workshops and attending it, as attending both would be duplicative.
  • I’m not based in the region where the event is taking place; can I still attend?
    Yes, registration for these workshops is open to everyone nationwide, ensuring anyone who would like to attend can, subject to scheduling and geography. Registrants can choose the event that best fits their schedule and location.
  • Who on my Brownfields RLF team should attend the workshop?
    The more the merrier! We believe there is value in having at least one additional local partner to help gather lessons, ideas, and strategies to implement when you return. We encourage you to bring anyone on your team, as well as any close local or regional partners. We will host interactive sessions that are tailored to people with a wide range of Brownfields RLF experiences.
  • I am new to Brownfields RLFs. Will the workshops be too advanced for me?
    No! In fact, we are preparing several pre-workshop resources and webinars to share with anyone new to both brownfields and RLFs. Our interactive sessions are tailored to people with a wide range of Brownfields RLF experiences.
  • What will the general schedule of the workshop look like?
    Each workshop will take place over a day and a half. The first day of each workshop will be a full day of sessions and peer-learning. The second day will be a half-day of interactive sessions, but will wrap up with a mobile site visit that may extend into the early afternoon.
  • How do I become a sponsor or exhibitor?
    We offer a range of sponsorships across workshops, individual events, and sessions. We welcome any support to make these events a reality. Please review our sponsorship opportunities and email us at epa-rlf-tab@growamerica.org to learn more about supporting these workshops.