The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has allocated $18.6 million across 15 projects to promote innovation in clean transportation and enhance support for first responders dealing with zero-emission vehicles. The funding aims to expand the Clean Cities and Communities initiative, making clean transportation options more accessible and affordable nationwide. The projects will collaborate with over 45 Clean Cities and Communities initiatives in more than 30 states, focusing on implementing clean transportation solutions in urban, suburban, and rural areas. The investments will facilitate partnerships with local coalitions to offer outreach, technical assistance training, safety resources for emergency responders transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, and support for the deployment of cutting-edge clean transportation technologies. The funding, channeled through DOE's Vehicle Technologies Office, aligns with the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization plans. It aims to address energy justice, boost the economy, create jobs, and enhance access to technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, fostering healthier communities. The projects span three funding topics: Clean Cities Outreach, Engagement, and Technical Assistance; Training for Critical Emergency Response Workers; and Clean Transportation Demonstration and Deployment. These projects include initiatives such as innovative training programs for fleets transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, providing emergency first responders with tools and resources for safe deployment of zero-emission vehicles, and demonstrating clean transportation technologies like hydrogen, rail, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. DOE highlights the crucial role of Clean Cities and Communities coalitions in the success of these projects. These coalitions, comprising over 75 DOE-designated entities, are dedicated to advancing clean transportation, bolstering the nation's environmental sustainability, energy security, and economic prosperity.