Hydration Station Competitive Grant Program

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is offering the 2025 Hydration Station Competitive Grant Program to support organizations in providing clean, safe drinking water through the installation of hydration stations. This initiative aims to improve public health across Minnesota by increasing access to filtered tap water, especially in settings where sugary drinks are common and access to healthy alternatives is limited. The program promotes oral health by encouraging the consumption of optimally fluoridated water while reducing exposure to lead and other contaminants found in aging plumbing infrastructure. Funding is administered by MDH’s Oral Health Unit and Drinking Water Protection Section, utilizing resources from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The program has a total funding pool of $20,000, with a maximum award of $3,000 per applicant and an anticipated 6–7 awards in total. Funding is limited to the purchase of approved hydration station equipment, such as drinking fountains with bottle-filling components, mounting hardware, and replacement filters. Installation and indirect costs are not covered. Eligible applicants include Minnesota-based schools, Head Start centers, nonprofits, clinics, and community centers that receive drinking water from a municipal community public water system. Applicants must ensure the installation site is compliant with these eligibility requirements. No matching funds are required, and funds are non-transferable. Any mergers or structural changes must be disclosed in the application. Applications must be submitted by email no later than 2:00 p.m. Central Time on Friday, November 14, 2025. Only one application per organization is accepted. Required materials include the signed application form, cost estimates, a conflict of interest disclosure, and additional supporting documents. Applications are reviewed competitively by a committee based on public health impact, infrastructure needs, and population served. Key selection factors include whether the facility serves children, is located in a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area, or was built before 1986. Awardees must comply with a formal grant agreement and adhere to reporting requirements, which include sharing costs, installation photos, and communications acknowledging MDH funding. Grantees will also participate in evaluation activities and may be asked to distribute educational materials about the importance of fluoridated drinking water. Projects must be completed by August 14, 2026, and invoices submitted by that date.

Emphasize site eligibility (municipal water, nonprofit status); include supporting lead documentation; highlight service to children and disadvantaged populations