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2027 applications are open!
The City of Rochester welcomes applications for the Building Community Grant. As our city continues to grow, we are dedicated to supporting projects that support building community, especially underserved and underrepresented groups and those working to promote and cultivate environmental sustainability. This grant is all about supporting projects, programs, and events in the city that actively promote equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, and community connection.
Do you have a great idea for making Rochester more inclusive, welcoming, and environmentally sustainable? Whether it is a community project, a groundbreaking program, or an inspiring event, we want to hear from you.
Individuals and organizations can apply. You do not need to be part of an organization.
Your project, program, or event must take place in Rochester, Minnesota.
You must be at least 15 years old. Applicants under 18 need an adult sponsor.
Your idea must support the grant’s purpose.
One-time projects and events are welcome. Your idea does not need to continue beyond the grant period.
Funding amounts and application dates
There are four funding rounds for 2027, with $25,000 available in each round. Applicants may receive up to $5,000 total per year. Award amounts may be less than requested. See below for important dates and application deadlines.
For 2027, an additional $25,000 is available through an environmental sustainability pilot program within the Building Community Grant. Projects should build community while supporting responsible environmental stewardship. Applicants use the same application, and City staff determine the appropriate funding source.
Choose the funding round that matches when you plan to begin your project, including planning and preparation. Your project does not need to be completed within that three-month period. All grant funds must be spent by December 31, 2027.
|
When your project starts |
Applications open |
Applications due |
|
January–March 2027 |
October 19, 2026 |
November 30, 2026 |
|
April–June 2027 |
January 1, 2027 |
February 21, 2027 |
|
July–September 2027 |
April 1, 2027 |
May 21, 2027 |
|
October–December 2027 |
July 1, 2027 |
August 21, 2027 |
Grant applications are due 11:59 PM CST for all funding cycles.
Applicants will be notified of a decision within four weeks after the application deadline. Funding is limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee an award.
Get application reminders
Want an email reminder when a future application window opens? Sign up for Building Community Grant reminders.
Applications are evaluated using the criteria below. Each criterion receives a score from 1 to 3.
| PRIORITIES | SCORE |
| Project Alignment with City Foundational Principles, City Strategic Plan and Organizational Vision |
3 - Strongly Aligns 2 - Somewhat aligns 1 - Does not align |
| Promotion of connection/engagement with diverse communities |
3 - Strongly promotes 2- Somewhat promotes 1 - Does not promote |
| Support for economic mobility and underrepresented/marginalized communities |
3 - Actively invests 2 - Indirectly invests 1 - Does not invest |
| Elevates voices of underrepresented/marginalized communities |
3 - Strongly shares 2 - Somewhat shares 1 - Does not share |
| New/innovative in our community |
3 - Idea new to the community 2 - Idea implemented within the last two years 1 - Idea implemented for 3 or more years |
| Fills a gap/need |
3 - Addresses clear gap/need 2 - Addresses minor gap/need 1 - Does not address a recognized gap/need |
| Intended to improve environmental sustainability |
3 - Idea is 100% focused on environmental sustainability 2 - Idea is mostly focused on environmental sustainability 1 - Idea is somewhat focused on environmental sustainability |
Payment: Grant funds are paid upfront. We’ll explain the next steps and any information needed to issue your payment.
Spending deadline: All grant funds must be spent by December 31, 2027. Any unused funds must be returned to the City.
Changes to your plans: Contact the City if your project changes or you are unable to use the funds as planned.
Feedback: After your project, we encourage you to share your experience and results. Feedback is requested but not required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What expenses are not eligible?
Grant funds cannot be used for:
If you are unsure whether an expense is eligible, please email bcg@rochestermn.gov before applying.
Do I need to pay project costs before receiving the grant?
No. Grant funds are paid upfront to reduce financial barriers to participation. You do not need to pay approved project costs first and request reimbursement.
Does my project need to be completed during the selected quarter?
No. You must begin work on your project during that period, which may include planning and preparation. Your project can continue beyond the quarter, but all grant funds must be spent by December 31, 2027.
What if I have money left over?
Any unused grant funds must be returned to the City. Please contact us if you cannot use the funds as planned.
Have additional questions? Please email bcg@rochestermn.gov.
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