Public Works

Public Works grants support local and Tribal governments with infrastructure funding that provides essential services and promotes economic development.

Contact: Chris Ismil, Chris.Ismil@state.mn.us or 218-735-3010.

Grant Cycle Dates: July 1, 2025 - May 29, 2026 or until program funds are substantially committed for the fiscal year, whichever occurs sooner.

Eligible Applicants: Cities, townships, Tribal governments and governmental entities created pursuant to Minnesota Statutes located within the agency's service area.

Multi-organization collaboration is welcomed.

FY26 Public Works Grant Guidelines

Grant Application Portal and Forms

FY24 Public Works Grant Program Evaluation

Success Story

The city of Aurora was awarded Public Works grants for a new East Range water system that will have the capacity to serve the four communities of Aurora, Town of White, Biwabik and Hoyt Lakes. The project involves a new water treatment plant, a new surface water intake structure and 10,000 feet of water transmission line to extend water service to residential areas. The existing water treatment plant, intake facilities and water sources are outdated, unsuited for continued use and economically unviable for renovation. The new system helps to future-proof our region, ensuring residents have access to clean, reliable drinking water for generations to come.

Broadband Infrastructure

Broadband Infrastructure grants assist projects that help households and businesses reach the State of Minnesota broadband speed goal.

Contact: Whitney Ridlon, Whitney.Ridlon@state.mn.us or 218-735-3004.

Grant Cycle Dates: July 1, 2025 - May 29, 2026 or until program funds are substantially committed for the fiscal year, whichever occurs sooner.

Eligible Applicants: Cities, townships, nonprofits, Tribal governments and governmental entities created pursuant to Minnesota Statutes located within the agency’s service area.

Multi-organization collaboration is welcomed.

FY26 Broadband Infrastructure Grant Guidelines

Grant Application Portal and Forms

FY25 Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program Evaluation

Success Story

Paul Bunyan Communications was awarded a Broadband Infrastructure grant to deploy fiber optic fast broadband with speeds up to 10 Gbps to approximately 350 unserved and underserved households in Great Scott Township and surrounding areas of Dark Lake, Clear Lake, Lake Fourteen and Lake Leander. The 350 locations will have access to the fastest internet speeds available which will far exceed the state of Minnesota 2026 speed goal. Construction is planned to begin in summer 2025 and be completed by winter 2025.