Community Clinic Grant

The 2026 Community Clinic Grant Program is a state-funded initiative administered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) through the Office of Rural Health and Primary Care (ORHPC). Authorized under Minnesota Statute 145.9268, the program aims to enhance clinical service delivery for underserved populations across Minnesota—particularly individuals with low incomes or those living in rural areas. The grant funds are intended to either increase or maintain access to primary care services such as medical, dental, mental health, and preventative health offerings for the uninsured and underinsured. The program has earmarked approximately $1,551,000 for the Fiscal Year 2026 cycle, which runs from March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027. MDH anticipates awarding 25–28 grants, each up to a maximum of $60,000. Matching funds are not required, and funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis following quarterly reporting. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. CT on Friday, November 7, 2025, and must be submitted through the ORHPC Online Grants Portal. Awards are expected to be announced by December 19, 2025. Eligible applicants include nonprofit clinics, government-operated clinics, Indian Health Services units or tribal government clinics, or consortia of such entities. All clinics must provide primary care services (preventative, medical, dental, or mental health) and maintain a written policy ensuring no patient is denied care due to an inability to pay. While the grant does not require collaboration, applications that demonstrate partnerships with other eligible clinics, hospitals, or community-based organizations may receive preference. Program funds may be used for various allowable expenses, including staff time, mobile or school-based clinics, medical equipment, culturally specific outreach, data systems, and indirect costs (up to 15% if no federal rate is negotiated). However, funds cannot be used for solicitation of donations, political lobbying, debt payments, or contingency reserves. Each applicant must submit a detailed work plan and narrative, a sliding fee scale policy, budget justification, and, where applicable, a governing board resolution and due diligence documentation. Grantees are required to participate in quarterly progress and financial reporting through the grant portal. Required reporting dates include July 20, October 20, January 20, and March 31. Additionally, grantees may be subject to monitoring visits and financial reconciliations depending on the size of their award. The grant evaluation criteria emphasize organizational capacity, population impact, collaboration, alignment with project goals, and fiscal responsibility. An informational webinar will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. CT. Webinar materials and Q&A will be posted on the MDH grant webpage by October 21. All questions regarding the RFP must be submitted to health.CommunityClinicGrant@state.mn.us by 4:30 p.m. CT on Monday, October 27, 2025.

Ensure all mandatory forms are uploaded. Budget narratives must explain all calculations. Prioritize projects serving uninsured populations. Use MDH’s sample budget worksheet and submit application early to avoid technical issues. Attend the October 14 webinar for insights.