The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking applicants for the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Community Grant Program Advisory Council | Minnesota DNR. The DNR encourages Minnesotans interested in serving on the advisory council to submit an online application. 

This advisory council will provide strategic guidance to the recently authorized ENRTF Community Grant Program. By reviewing grant policies and guidelines, program structures, and recipient and program/project eligibility, the council will promote transparency, accessibility, equity, and effectiveness in the allocation of ENRTF Community Grant Program resources. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on April 10, 2026. Click here to apply.

The DNR has also submitted their required report to the legislature about how they plan to implement the new Community Grants Program. Here are some key takeaways from that report:

• Grant Models – The DNR will be offering two different types of grants. 1) An Expedited Community Grant that will be offered several times a year for projects that are already in development, can be completed within one year, and are aimed at helping projects get across the finish line. 2) Standard Community Grants will be offered annually and come with a higher award limit and longer timeline for work to be done. These standard grants will be useable for larger, more complex projects.
• Fiscal Management – Grantees will have the option to receive grant awards either on a reimbursement plan or an advanced payment plan, allowing smaller groups greater flexibility in managing funds. It also allows groups to name fiscal agents that will help smaller organizations, especially those who have never received a state grant before, by allowing them to learn from an experienced and knowledgeable partner.
• Advisory Council – The DNR must also appoint a Community Grant Advisory Council to help assist with reviewing applications, make recommendations to improve the program, and assist with program management, among other duties. This council will consist of 14-19 members of the public and will include members of diverse cultural, racial, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds to ensure the program sufficiently represents as many Minnesota communities as possible. 

To learn more about the ENRTF Community Grant Program Advisory Council, visit their webpage here.