The Minnesota School-Based Health Centers (SBHC) Grant is administered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to support both the development of new school-based clinics and the sustainability or expansion of existing ones. SBHCs are healthcare facilities located in or near schools that provide comprehensive, high-quality, accessible healthcare to K–12 students, regardless of their ability to pay, insurance status, or immigration status. These centers offer preventive and behavioral health services and may also include care for chronic conditions, acute illness, oral and vision care, nutritional and reproductive health, substance abuse counseling, referrals, and services that address social determinants of health.
This grant opportunity is funded through Minnesota state funding and supports two categories: "Category 1: New and Emerging Clinics" and "Category 2: Operating Clinics." The New and Emerging Grant offers a one-time, three-year funding package totaling $187,500 to help organizations plan, establish, and begin operating a new SBHC site. The Operating Clinic Grant provides tiered funding of $50,000 to $100,000 per year for three years based on combined operating hours to enhance existing clinics. This funding is not renewable within the same application cycle but may be extended for an additional year based on performance and funding availability.
Eligible applicants include public schools, school districts, charter schools, Tribal schools, alternative learning centers, community-based organizations, tribal clinics, local health departments, and medical or mental health organizations intending to sponsor an SBHC. A sponsoring organization must meet the legal definition outlined in MN Statute 145.903 Sub. 1. Collaboration with a school district and participation with MDH and the Minnesota School-Based Health Alliance (MNSBHA) are required throughout the grant period.
Applications are due by July 10, 2025, through the Child and Family Health Online Grant Portal. Interested applicants can attend an informational session on June 3, 2025, at 4 p.m. via Microsoft Teams. Questions must be submitted via email by June 30, 2025, to be addressed in the final Q&A posting by July 2, 2025. Required components of the application include a Grant Applicant Face Sheet, Project Narrative, Workplan, Budget Details (Excel format only), and supplemental forms including a Due Diligence Form, Indirect Cost Questionnaire, and Conflict of Interest Disclosure.
Applications will be scored based on clarity, organizational capacity, collaboration, health equity considerations, and sustainability strategies. MDH will make final funding decisions based on reviewer scores, community needs, geographic representation, and funding availability. Successful applicants will be notified by email.
