Healthy Brain Community Grant

The Minnesota Healthy Brain Initiative Community Grant Program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act. The program seeks to improve outcomes for individuals impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias by empowering community-based organizations to lead education, outreach, and care-support initiatives across Minnesota. This initiative aims to increase early detection and diagnosis of dementia, raise awareness of dementia risk reduction strategies, and support the health and well-being of both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. It also places a strong emphasis on cultural responsiveness, recognizing that effective engagement with diverse communities requires tailored approaches that reflect the values, experiences, and languages of those being served. Funding from the 2025–2030 grant cycle was awarded to five organizations: Centro Tyrone Guzman, Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, Minneapolis Indian Women’s Resource Center, Prosperity for New America, and Rochester Clinic. Projects range from developing Montessori-inspired dementia education kits to hosting community-led listening sessions and conferences on brain health and lifestyle. These initiatives reflect the overarching goals of the Healthy Brain Initiative to reduce social isolation, support clinical-community linkages, and deliver accessible, community-driven dementia care education. Eligible applicants for this program include nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, faith-based groups, and culturally-specific community organizations operating in Minnesota. Although this round of funding has already been awarded, the Healthy Brain Initiative aligns with the broader Minnesota Dementia Strategic Plan, and future funding rounds may continue under this strategic framework. No active RFP is currently posted for the next cycle. The Minnesota Healthy Brain Initiative is part of a coordinated effort that brings together public health agencies, healthcare systems, and community-based organizations. The initiative emphasizes data-informed strategy, stakeholder collaboration, and measurable progress toward improving the quality of life for individuals living with dementia in Minnesota. The Minnesota Healthy Brain Partnership convenes quarterly to evaluate the plan’s implementation and continue strategic planning efforts. Interested organizations should monitor updates from MDH and the CDC's BOLD program for future funding opportunities or engagement.