Greater Minnesota Tribal Transit Vehicle Grant
Greater Minnesota Tribal Transit Vehicle Grant supports Tribal transit programs with vehicle purchases to expand fleets and replace aging or poorly maintained vehicles for public transit service.
Funder: Minnesota Department of Transportation
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Applications open) | October 22, 2026 (In-person meeting) | November 17, 2026, before 11:59 PM (Application deadline) | January 1, 2027 (Selected projects published by)
Funding Amounts: $500,000 total for 2027; MnDOT contributes up to $150,000 per vehicle, covering up to 80%
Summary: Supports replacement and expansion public transit vehicle purchases for Tribal transit programs in Greater Minnesota.
Key Information: Applicants must be Tribal governments receiving FTA transit operating funds and have an FTA-approved Transit Asset Management plan.
Description
The Greater Minnesota Tribal Transit Vehicle Grant is a one-time capital grant administered by the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Office of Transit and Active Transportation (OTAT). It uses Minnesota State General Revenue funds to help Tribal transit programs purchase public transit revenue vehicles for 2027.
The program supports fleet expansion and replacement of vehicles that have passed their useful life or are not in a state of good repair. Eligible purchases include vans, minivans, and Class 300, 400, and 500 buses. Selection considers documented vehicle needs, utilization, people served, service coverage, and the applicant’s financial commitment. Vehicles equipped for full Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, including a lift, receive additional points.
