The MPCA sought project proposals to distribute $1.1 million in grants for climate planning projects to small communities with populations of less than 10,000. 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.
Closed: Application deadline was 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 held an informational meeting on Oct. 27, 2025, 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
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.