Micro Grant

The Micro Grant program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Office of Civil Rights, provides targeted financial assistance to certified small businesses seeking to enhance their capabilities and competitiveness in pursuing MnDOT contracts. This initiative is a part of MnDOT's broader Business Development Program (BDP), which offers technical assistance and access to financial resources to support small business growth, particularly those owned by individuals from underrepresented populations. The program supports the development of business and technical skills essential for obtaining MnDOT professional, technical, or construction contracts. Eligible applicants must be Minnesota-based certified small businesses, including those certified through the Minnesota Unified Certification Program for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) or the state’s Targeted Group, Economically Disadvantaged, or Veteran-Owned (TG/ED/VO) programs. Additionally, applicants must have bid or proposed on a MnDOT project as a prime, subcontractor, or consultant within the past two state fiscal years. Prior to applying, applicants are required to complete the Micro Grant Program online training or attend a group or one-on-one training session. The grant provides up to $3,500 per business on a reimbursement basis, covering pre-approved expenses aimed at increasing a firm's ability to bid on MnDOT contracts. Qualifying expenses include technical training, business development courses, software, website development, educational materials, and professional services that support operational capacity or improve competitive positioning. However, certain expenses such as advertising, travel, indirect costs, personnel expenses, equipment, and previously reimbursed items are explicitly excluded. Applications are evaluated on a pass/fail basis and must include a completed application form, proof of bidding on eligible MnDOT contracts, documentation of proposed expenses, and several signed certifications and disclosures. Only one grant is available per certified small business per year. A total of $70,000 is allocated for the fiscal year, with $35,000 reserved for new applicants until the end of 2025. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis until all funds are exhausted or until the final deadline of April 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM CST. Completed applications, along with all supporting materials, must be submitted via email to ocrgrantinvoices.dot@state.mn.us. Questions about the program can be directed to the grant manager at nicole.k.larson@state.mn.us. Awarded businesses will receive a final report template and must submit a completed report with their final reimbursement request. Funds cannot be used retroactively; businesses must wait for a formal authorization to proceed before incurring expenses. This program is part of MnDOT’s commitment to advancing equity in transportation contracting by supporting diverse entrepreneurs across Minnesota.

Submit early as funds are awarded on a rolling basis; ensure all documents are signed and complete; incomplete submissions are rejected