PFAS Source Identification and Reduction Grant Program

The PFAS Source Identification and Reduction Grant Program is administered by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). This program aims to mitigate the environmental and health impacts associated with Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to degradation. These substances are linked to serious health risks including cancer, liver disease, and immune system dysfunction, and also pose a threat to aquatic life and wildlife. To address these concerns, the Minnesota Legislature allocated $4 million to support both private and public entities in identifying sources of PFAS entering municipal wastewater treatment and waste management systems and implementing initiatives to prevent and reduce PFAS pollution. The grant provides up to $125,000 per applicant, with a cap of $75,000 for plan development. At least 10% of the grant amount must be matched by the applicant either through in-kind services or cash. These funds are reimbursed post-expense submission and approval, not distributed upfront. Eligible uses include planning, development, and execution of PFAS reduction strategies, product substitutions, and system improvements. However, projects related to the construction of treatment systems or those not directly connected to PFAS discharge into waste systems are not eligible. Eligible applicants include municipalities, private and public solid waste management facilities, and industrial and stormwater facilities that contribute PFAS to wastewater or the environment. Applicants must have participated in, or been sampled through, MPCA’s PFAS Monitoring Plan. Notably, entities that manufacture PFAS or are managed by the MPCA are excluded. All projects must benefit underserved or environmental justice communities and include a defined scope, objectives, timeline, and budget. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until either the $2 million funding is exhausted or until 4:00 p.m. Central Time on July 31, 2025. Projects must be completed by December 18, 2026. To apply, applicants must submit the Rolling Application Form electronically to grants.pca@state.mn.us with a specific subject line. Questions regarding the RFP must be submitted by March 26, 2025, to the same email address. Answers will be posted on the MPCA grant webpage, ensuring transparency. Selected applicants will be notified within approximately 30 days of submission. Those awarded grants must enter into an agreement via DocuSign, register as a vendor in Minnesota’s SWIFT system, and comply with comprehensive monitoring and reporting requirements. These include quarterly invoicing and a final report within 180 days of project completion. The grant also enforces adherence to prevailing wage laws, conflict of interest policies, and financial accountability, including audits and fiscal documentation for NGOs based on their annual revenue.