Environmental Response Fund Fall 2026

The County of Hennepin (Minnesota) is soliciting applications for the 2026 Environmental Response Fund (ERF) grant, which provides funding for assessment, remediation, and cleanup of contaminated sites within the county. Eligible entities include municipalities, economic development agencies, housing authorities, non‑profits, quasi‑governmental and private companies. Funding for the fall 2026 round is expected to be between $1.0 million and $1.5 million, with individual grants supporting site assessments (completed within 1 year) or clean‑ups (completed within 2 years). Applicants must submit a detailed project schedule, budget, and evidence of local match funding. The application window opens 08/26/2026 and closes 11/02/2026; questions are due 10/21/2026. Submissions are made via the Hennepin County Supplier Portal. • Eligible projects: public‑use land, affordable housing, economic development, infill/orphan sites, lead/asbestos abatement. • Required deliverables: RAP, cost breakdown, local match, compliance with state statutes. • Evaluation criteria prioritize health/environmental risk reduction, community value, leverage of local funds, and alignment with county priorities.