Minnesota Forward Fund for Institutions of Higher Learning
Minnesota Forward Fund for Institutions of Higher Learning supports colleges and universities working with businesses on semiconductor training, workforce, research, and facilities to strengthen Minnesota’s industry.
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Funder: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Due Dates: Rolling (year-round)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5 million per institution; no more than 50% of total project funding
Summary: Grants support higher education partnerships that build semiconductor workforce pipelines and research capacity in Minnesota.
Key Information: At least one business partner must have received a Minnesota Forward Fund award.
Description
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) administers this grant within the Minnesota Forward Fund. It supports higher education institutions working with businesses benefiting from the fund’s CHIPS Act program. Projects may develop and deploy semiconductor training programs, build workforce pipelines, expand research and development capacity for semiconductor projects, or construct and equip facilities serving industry purposes.
The broader fund seeks to attract, retain, and expand businesses while encouraging private investment and high-quality employment in Minnesota. For education projects, DEED looks for a clear workplan, budget, timeline, and outcomes aligned with those goals.
