Indian Health Grant

The Indian Health Grant Program for Fiscal Years 2025–2026 is offered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to support clinical health services that are culturally informed and serve American Indian individuals living off reservations. This biennial program is authorized under Minnesota Statute 145A.14 and is focused on reducing health disparities by improving access to medical, dental, mental health, and preventive care in outpatient settings. The services may include traditional healing practices, and clinics may be stationary or mobile. Up to $348,000 is available in this cycle, and an estimated 4 to 5 grants will be awarded. Eligible applicants for this funding opportunity include Tribal Nations and nonprofit organizations. Nonprofit applicants that were not created for and are not specifically focused on serving American Indians must demonstrate active collaboration with American Indian populations or representative organizations. A strong emphasis is placed on culturally informed care, with bonus points awarded to organizations that were established specifically to serve American Indian communities. Applicants must also demonstrate project feasibility, outcomes, and detailed plans through a competitive application process. Applications must be submitted electronically through the ORHPC Grants Portal no later than 4:30 p.m. Central Time on October 7, 2024. Required components include an online form (with organization, project, narrative, budget, and conflict of interest sections), a work plan, budget breakdown, and specific supporting attachments. These attachments differ based on the applicant type: nonprofits must include due diligence forms, financial audits, and letters of support if not originally established to serve American Indian populations. Optional letters of support may be included by other eligible applicants. The grant period will span from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2026. Funding is contingent upon favorable legislative action for the second half of the biennium (July–December 2026). MDH will disburse funds on a reimbursement basis, with reporting due quarterly and monitored in alignment with Minnesota’s grant oversight policies. Reimbursement requests must align with the approved budget, and additional monitoring and site visits may occur depending on the grant size. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee of professionals familiar with American Indian health issues and grant administration. The selection criteria emphasize problem definition, project clarity, culturally informed strategies, collaboration, and impact. Awards will be announced by November 12, 2024. Applicants may attend an informational webinar scheduled for September 10, 2024, and may submit questions until September 25, 2024. For further assistance, contact Bekah Ehlebracht, Program Administrator, at bekah.ehlebracht@state.mn.us or 651-201-3780.

Clearly define culturally informed care; focus on measurable outcomes and community partnership; Tribal or Native-led groups preferred.