Iowa’s Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) has approved $1,124,750 in grants for 24 retail sites looking to expand access to higher biofuel blends. The funding will support 20 locations adding B11 biodiesel and 4 others introducing E15 ethanol blends. The awards were announced during the first RFIP board meeting of the new fiscal year, which began on July 1, 2025.
“We’re encouraged to see more retailers offering B11 blends to their customers,” said Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA). “Iowa leads the nation in biodiesel use, and expanding these options benefits both consumers and our state’s economy.”
To qualify for RFIP grants, biodiesel retailers must commit to offering B11 (11% biodiesel) or higher. During winter months, B5 may be offered as an alternative. Ethanol retailers can receive funding to support the sale of E15 or higher blends.
Since its inception, the RFIP—administered by the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Board (RFIB)—has awarded more than $60 million to assist fuel retailers in upgrading their infrastructure to accommodate higher biofuel blends. The RFIB, composed of 10 governor-appointed voting members, oversees the distribution of these funds.
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association represents the state’s renewable liquid fuels industry and advocates for its continued development. Iowa remains the top producer of renewable fuels in the U.S., with 42 ethanol plants capable of producing 4.7 billion gallons annually, including 34 million gallons of cellulosic ethanol. Additionally, the state is home to 10 biodiesel facilities with a combined annual capacity of 416 million gallons.
