The Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) has issued its 2020 Request for Proposals (RFP) for funding from the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund for projects that will provide multiple ecological and other public benefits. The RFP includes a category for projects under $200,000, especially from local units of government and non- profits, that aim to quickly and efficiently provide environmental and natural resource benefits in Minnesota.
LCCMR is accepting proposals through April 15, 2019 for projects that protect, conserve, preserve, and enhance Minnesota’s water, air, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources. The commission reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the Minnesota Legislature from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, which receives lottery proceeds and investment income. About $53 million is anticipated to be available for projects beginning July 1, 2020. Most of the projects that are funded have a two to three year duration.
Applicants are encouraged to submit draft proposals by March 15 to receive staff feedback. Final proposals must be submitted online at www.lccmr.leg.mn by April 15.
There is no minimum or maximum request amount. The request for proposals is open to all who want to apply and who have demonstrated fiscal capacity. Applicants must be available to make a formal presentation to the commission if selected and be available for staff or commission member questions.
The LCCMR is made up of 17 members: five Senators, five Representatives, five citizens appointed by the Governor, one citizen appointed by the Senate, and one citizen appointed by the House. The function of the LCCMR is to make funding recommendations to the legislature for special environmental and natural resource projects. Since the LCCMR was developed in 1963, approximately $999 million has been appropriated to more than 2,200 projects.