Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant Program

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) offers the Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant to support Minnesota farmers in improving safety conditions at on-farm grain bins or silos. The purpose of this program is to reduce the risks associated with grain storage operations by subsidizing the purchase and installation of safety equipment. Funding is available for Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027, with a total of $75,000 allocated per year from the state legislature. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, with priority given to applications received by May 1 of each fiscal year. The grant reimburses 75% of eligible expenses, up to $400 per bin or silo, with a maximum of $2,400 per farm per fiscal year. Funding is only available for costs incurred after a fully executed grant contract is in place. All payments are made on a reimbursement basis following project completion and submission of required documentation. Only one application per farm is permitted each fiscal year. The state encourages applicants to use reputable suppliers and qualified installers for their safety upgrades. Eligible equipment includes fall protection systems, spiral staircases and guardrails for bins built before June 2020, auger safety controls, air quality monitors, dust collection systems, and various forms of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as NIOSH-approved respirators and hearing protection. Applicants may also propose other safety-related equipment with prior approval from the MDA. Ineligible items include ladder cages, staircases for post-June 2020 bins, camera systems, and personal labor or volunteer services. To be eligible, applicants must be the principal operator of a farm in Minnesota, either as a resident or authorized business entity. They must also be in good standing with the state, without tax defaults or poor performance on previous grants. Applications are submitted through the MDA’s online portal, and paper alternatives are available upon request. The grant requires a 25% match from non-state sources, which may include loans, cash, or other private capital. Applicants must submit a complete online application, including project and budget details, confirmation of match source, equipment lists, and project timelines. The grant period is one year from the contract start date. Grantees must comply with all terms of the agreement, including reporting and documentation for reimbursement. Projects may be audited, and the MDA retains discretion to cancel or modify awards. Additional resources such as the USDA’s Farm Storage Facility Loan Program may also be available for related infrastructure needs.

Apply before May 1 for funding priority. Do not begin purchasing until the contract is executed. Identify vendors in your application to avoid formal bidding later. Ensure quotes and match funds are clearly documented.