The MPCA is seeking project proposals to distribute $1.1 million in grants for climate planning projects to small communities with populations of less than 10,000 people. This funding provides an opportunity for these communities to assess vulnerabilities and begin planning for the effects of Minnesota’s changing climate in three areas:
- increased resilience to stormwater and reduce localized flood risk
- improved resilience of wastewater systems
- reduced human health effects and adapt community services, ordinances, and public spaces to the changing climate
The effects of climate change are being felt across the state from overwhelmed infrastructure, damaged property, dying trees, and culturally important native species to excessive heat, worsening air quality, and other health threats. Minnesota state government is partnering with local communities to assess needs, develop climate-adaptation plans, and make changes so that we are ready for what lies ahead.
Application deadline is 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025.
Questions and answers
MPCA employees cannot legally answer questions about this grant opportunity. Please submit questions about this grant to grants.pca@state.mn.us with the subject line “FY26 Small Communities Planning Grants for SWC Resilience” no later than Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, at 4 p.m. CST.
Informational meeting
The MPCA will hold an informational meeting on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 at 1 p.m. to answer questions about this grant opportunity.
Eligibility
Tribal Nations, cities, counties, towns/townships, soil and water conservation districts, water management organizations, public school districts, and water districts that have or serve populations under 10,000 are eligible to apply.
Available funds
Total funding available: $1.1 million
How to apply
Review the RFP. The request for proposal (RFP) and application materials can only be accessed through the online SWIFT portal. The RFP is termed an “Event” within the SWIFT system.
- go to the online SWIFT portal.
- click on "Bidding opportunities"
- find event by name (FY26 Small Communities Planning Grants for SWC Resilience) or ID (2000017483)
- click "View Bid Package" to see the RFP and forms (there’s no need to log in to see the documents)
Apply online. Grant applications are only accepted through the SWIFT portal.
- Register as a bidder in the SWIFT Supplier Portal, (Bidding = "applying")
- Choose "Register for an Account" and then "Register as a Bidder".
If you are already registered in the SWIFT system as a supplier (previously known as a vendor), use your supplier ID. Visit the SWIFT Supplier Portal under “Informational Tips” and “Supplier Portal Help” for more information.
Need help with SWIFT? Direct questions about applying through SWIFT to the Vendor Assistance Help Desk at 651-201-8100, option 1 or contact the SWIFT Vendor Liaison, Ellie Pflager: ellie.pflager@state.mn.us or 651-201-8148
More information
During the 2023 legislative session, ongoing funding was appropriated in the Omnibus Environment, Natural Resources, Climate, and Energy bill to support communities in planning and implementing projects for climate resiliency and water infrastructure that will allow for adaptation for a changing climate.