Off-Highway Vehicle Grant-in-Aid Program
The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant-in-Aid Program by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources funds the scientific development and maintenance of sustainable motorized recreational trails in Minnesota.
Funder: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: February 27, 2026: Competitive grant application (Direct grants) deadline | November 30, 2026: Annual Maintenance Application (Form 1) deadline | November 30, 2026: Capital Improvement Application (Form 3) deadline | March 31, 2027: DNR Roving Crew Application deadline | April 30, 2027: End of Biennium Funds Application deadline | May 31, 2027: End of Biennium Funds Application (Form 7) deadline | July 31, 2027: Winter Maintenance Application (Form 6) deadline
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from several thousand to over $100,000 per project; reimbursement rates are 65–100% depending on activity; $952,000 available for competitive grants in 2026.
Summary: Supports development, improvement, and maintenance of recreational trails for all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and off-road vehicles in Minnesota.
Key Information: Multiple application types and deadlines; local government sponsorship and nonprofit club involvement required.
Description
The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant-in-Aid (OHV GIA) Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is a cost-share initiative supporting the creation, maintenance, and enhancement of trails for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-highway motorcycles (OHMs), and off-road vehicles (ORVs) across Minnesota. The program funds a wide range of activities, including project administration, site planning, trail improvements, land acquisition, capital improvements, and ongoing trail maintenance. Enthusiast clubs partner with local government sponsors to apply for funding, ensuring high-quality, sustainable trail experiences for motorized recreation.
