Federal grants for energy projects get a match from state fund

To assist Minnesota businesses, nonprofits and government entities in securing federal funds for energy projects, a $115 million “competitiveness fund” has been established to provide matching funds for federal grants that require them. Operated by the Commerce Department, the fund is also used to assist Minnesota applicants in developing federal grant applications.

The $115 million appropriation from the General Fund in fiscal year 2023 includes $106 million for matching federal funds, of which at least $75 million is for grant awards of less than $1 million. The rest includes grant development assistance, information system development to support the program, and required reports and audits through 2035.

Sponsored by Rep. Patty Acomb (DFL-Minnetonka) and Sen. Nick Frentz (DFL-North Mankato), the law took effect April 19, 2023.

HF1656*/SF1622/CH24

HF1656* / SF1622 / CH24