Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants
The Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources fund rural fire departments for equipment and projects that enhance fire protection and emergency response capabilities.
Funder: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: December 1, 2026 (Annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards: $1,000–$5,000 per grant; 120–140 grants awarded annually; 50:50 match required
Summary: Supports rural Minnesota fire departments (serving populations under 10,000) to enhance fire protection and safety through matching grants for critical equipment and projects.
Key Information: Eligible only to Minnesota fire departments; annual MFIRS reporting required for funding.
Description
This program provides matching grants and technical assistance to Minnesota fire departments serving cities or communities with populations under 10,000. The goal is to improve the capacity of rural fire departments to save lives and protect property by funding essential projects such as establishing or reorganizing departments, converting vehicles for fire control, upgrading communications, and acquiring critical fire and personal safety equipment. Funding is provided through the USDA Forest Service and administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
