Key points at a glance
- Minnesota Energy Resources accepting applications for lifesaving grant program.
- Grants are available to assist local police, fire and EMS agencies.
- Nearly $120,000 in grants awarded since 2015.
Rosemount — Minnesota Energy Resources is building on its support for local first responders working to keep communities safe. The utility is providing $10,000 to help police, fire and emergency medical services (EMS) agencies improve public safety through the Rewarding Responders Grant program.
Emergency response agencies in Minnesota can apply for a grant through June 15.
Rewarding efforts to enhance safety in local communities
The Rewarding Responders Grant helps first responders acquire lifesaving equipment or training. Departments use the funding to meet vital equipment needs — from protective clothing and handheld lights to heavy-duty rescue tools — that increase safety for everyone in their communities.
Since the program began in 2015, Minnesota Energy Resources has awarded $117,000 to help hundreds of individual agencies strengthen public safety.
How to apply for a grant
Emergency response agencies can apply for a 2026 grant on the Minnesota Energy Resources website.
Public safety agencies are eligible for a grant if they:
- Operate in the Minnesota Energy Resources service area.
- Did not receive a grant in 2025.
- Complete the online grant application.
- Demonstrate the equipment or training they will acquire is part of a well-designed effort to improve public safety. Grants also can be used for unique safety-related projects that are one-time efforts.
Grants of up to $2,000 are available to eligible departments.