The State Register is the definitive source for all procurement RFPs issued by the DNR.
The DNR’s Grants page is the definitive source for all grant RFPs issued by the DNR.
Open funding opportunities
| Grant Opportunity | Application Deadline | Grant Awards | Funds Available | Eligible Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant Program | Submit a complete application packet by 11:59 pm on December 1, 2025 | Awards typically range from $500-$5,000. 50/50 cost-share grant. Match must be non-federal funding. |
$476,172 | Local fire departments serving rural communities or rural areas with populations under 10,000 Departments must have wildland fire protection responsibilities and be legally organized entities. |
| 2025 ReLeaf Community Forestry Grants | Minnesota DNR | Extended deadline! Applications due by November 11, 2025 | Maximum grant request $500,000 No match required |
$7 million | Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c) status, educational institutions, and local units of government within Minnesota, including cities, counties, regional authorities, joint powers boards, towns, and Tribal governments. Parks and recreation boards in cities of the first class are also eligible to apply. |
| 2025 Community Tree Planting Grants | Minnesota DNR | Extended deadline! Applications due by October 27, 2025 | Maximum grant request $500,000 No match required |
$4 million | All cities, counties, and townships, as well as park and recreation boards in cities of the first class, are eligible to apply. |
| Conservation Partners Legacy Program: Expedited Conservation Projects | Open continuously through May 11, 2026, or until all funds are awarded. Completed applications will be pulled for review every two months on the following days at 4:00 pm: Round 1: September 8, 2025 Round 2: November 10, 2025 Round 3: January 12, 2026 Round 4: March 9, 2026 Round 5: May 11, 2026 |
Funds projects up to $75,000 with a total project cost cap of $575,000
10% match of non-state origin required |
$2 million | Nonprofit organizations and government entities are eligible to apply |
| Minnesota State Parks and Trails Transportation Grants | Application Deadline: May 15, 2026 Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. |
Maximum award is $5,000. No matched required. | $15,000 | Eligible schools, youth groups, and community organizations |