GMRPTC Update: Fiscal Year 2027 funding application open on April 1

Below is a message from GMRPTC Executive Director Renee Mattson. You can reach her at renee.mattson@gmrptcommission.org.

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The portal in which to apply for a FY2027 Legacy grant from the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC) opened on April 1 and will remain open until July 31 at 11:59pm.

Parks, trails, special features, and supportive partnerships that have been designated as regionally significant are eligible to apply for Greater Minnesota Legacy grants. Though the final granting amount will not be determined until June, we anticipate that a conservative estimate of $11 million will be available.

It’s important to review the documents in the Application Toolbox to ensure you have the most up-to-date information about the application process for 2025. Even if you have previously applied, be sure you have the most current Funding Resolution and are informed about changes to the Guidelines and Criteria. We’ve recently reformatted the Funding Application Portal Instructions as well as the Funding Application Guidelines to provide a more cohesive way to present the information. We hope you find these documents easier to navigate and less redundant.

Remember, Connecting People with the Outdoors (CPO) grants are encouraged. A CPO grant may be submitted as part of a larger project. Think about ways to develop creative programming, partnerships with other designated facilities to purchase and share equipment, or ways to increase visits from underserved communities.

Commissioners have earmarked $250,000 for Accessibility Grants and $250,000 for Environmental/Archeological Grants. These funds become available on July 1, 2025, and will be reviewed and granted as applications are received. There is no deadline to apply. 

The Accessibility Grants can include building modifications to improve accessibility, enhance accessible routes, signage, and other actions that lead to an improved and inclusive experience for visitors to a facility. 

Environmental/Archeological Grants will provide funding for archeological studies, EAW or Phase I EIS, or other work related to pre-project development.

As always, we encourage applicants to contact System Plan Coordinator Joe Czapiewski or me to talk about an application prior to the submission. We’re here to help through the process and always enjoy hearing about potential projects!