The Minnesota Department of Commerce seeks proposals from qualified applicants throughout Minnesota for the Electric School Bus Grant Program.
What is this grant for? This round will provide funding for districts to get electric school buses operational. This includes:
- Purchasing up to three new electric school buses, or repowering fossil-fuel-powered school buses to run on electricity.
- Deploying charging infrastructure for the buses
- Administering vehicle and charger procurement processes
Who can apply? Independent and special school districts, Tribal contract schools, as well as transportation providers and utilities representing a school district. See the RFP for more details about how each of these terms are defined.
How much funding can an applicant receive? Depending on the district’s financial need and other district prioritization criteria, the Department can cover between 80% and 90% of bus cost, and 65% and 95% of other eligible expenses.
When and where can I apply? Applications will be accepted from Monday, February 10, 2025, until Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 5pm CST. The RFP is posted publicly online on the Department’s RFP page.
The Department will post equipment funding rounds at least once a year until December 31, 2026, or until funds run out.
What if I have other questions? Join us for an informational webinar on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 2pm-3pm to learn more about the application, and ask any questions you have. Register using this link.