3 Tips on Finding Financing for Cleaner School Buses

As resources at local government levels become scarcer, many school districts wishing to upgrade their fleets of school buses are being forced to stand by while they attempt to find funding. Truth be told, this aspect of trying to buy buses that offer the healthiest environment possible while students are being transported from home to school and back has become more difficult as well as lenders have become more cautious with their funding.

While the current environment may be extremely challenging, there are still financing sources that can make upgrading a fleet of school buses a reality. Here are 3 tips on finding the financing your district needs to buy cleaner school buses:

• Assemble a detailed account of the age of the buses in the district fleet as well as their overall condition – This process will help to determine the available sources for funding as well as the most advantageous programs for rebates and other forms of assistance.
• Assess whether the district has the ability to match funds – It’s not uncommon for financing to require the matching of funds from the school district. Having a handle on whether matching funds are available can speed the process of getting funded.  
• Look for partners – There may be non-financial assistance in the form of non-profit groups that can connect the school district to local business that offer sponsorships, such as corporate sponsorships or charitable events.

While funding may be challenging at this point in time, it can still be found. Starting the process by being prepared with data related to your existing fleet as well as the funding available from local sources and your district will be well on the way toward the purchases of a new fleet of buses.