The MPCA is seeking proposals for planning and implementation projects that enable local jurisdictions to adapt to extreme weather events and a changing climate and/or to reduce the local jurisdiction’s contributions to the causes of climate change.
Approximately $1.3 million in total funding is available through two separate grant opportunities:
- MPCA-Local Climate Action Planning Grants (2000017660)
- MPCA-Local Climate Action Implementation Grants (2000017659)
Closed: Applications were due Dec. 23, 2025.
Questions and answers
Submit questions about this grant to grants.pca@state.mn.us, subject line: “FY26 Local Climate Action Grants” no later than 4 p.m. CST on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025.
Individual MPCA employees cannot answer questions about this grant opportunity, and direct contact regarding this RFP with MPCA personnel may result in disqualification.
Informational meeting
The MPCA held an informational meeting on Nov. 20, 2025, to answer questions about this grant opportunity.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants include Minnesota political subdivisions (i.e., counties, home rule charter or statutory cities and towns, regional development commissions or any other local political subdivision; and Tribal governments as defined in Minnesota statute), organizations exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and educational institutions.
Eligible applicants must be located in or conduct the preponderance of the applicant's work in the local jurisdiction (geographic area) where the proposed grant activities take place.
Available funds
Approximately $1.3 million in funding is available to be awarded during FY26 through separate planning and implementation grant opportunities ($650,000 for grants for each opportunity).
The maximum grant award for this RFP is $50,000. There is no minimum.
More information
The 2023 Minnesota Legislature set aside funds for local climate action grants to help communities across Minnesota reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate change.
Examples of projects that could be funded include:
Planning projects
- a local or Tribal government developing a community-wide plan for climate adaptation and resilience
- an educational institution developing a plan to increase renewable energy use on its campus
- a community-based organization developing a plan to reduce energy use in local housing
Implementation projects
- implementing a priority action from an existing climate action plan
- taking a Gold Leaf Challenge action to increase energy efficiency or renewable energy
- improving access to clean transportation options that don’t release climate pollution
These local climate action grants will help local communities contribute towards the goals of Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework.