Native-led_Q___A.docx

This is a Questions and Answers document from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regarding a Native-led Organizations Tribal Food Sovereignty Grant Request for Proposal. The RFP seeks proposals from Native-led organizations for tribal food sovereignty projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with applications due August 4, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time. Questions regarding the RFP are due July 21, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CT and should be submitted via email to grants.pca@state.mn.us. Project activities may include installation of greenhouses or high tunnels, conversion of gas or diesel food-related equipment to electric or sustainable fuel sources, edible food plantings, local food foraging expansion, energy-efficient retrofitting of food infrastructure, and composting or food waste prevention infrastructure. The MPCA expects to award approximately $4 million in total grant funds, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 per project. Projects must begin November 1, 2026 and be completed no later than April 1, 2029, with no extensions permitted. Applicants will be notified of selection status approximately 60 days after application submission.

This RFP is a set-aside for Native-led organizations that must meet at least two of three criteria: the service population comprises Native American community members, the Executive Director is Native American, or a majority of board members (51% or more) are Native American. Organizations must demonstrate documented, significant decision-making capacity and management by Native American members and leaders and work with Native American populations off reservation lands. No matching funds are required, and grant funding is provided as cost reimbursement through EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CFDA 66.046), with the final 10 percent of funds retained until project completion and satisfactory delivery of all deliverables. Projects must strengthen tribal food sovereignty while improving food security and economic opportunity in Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities and must align with the Minnesota Climate Action Framework. Submissions must be made through the SWIFT Supplier Portal as a complete application with workplan and budget in specified formats.