The Minnesota Department of Agriculture announced on Apr. 8 that it is accepting applications for the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation Biofuels Infrastructure Program, which provides matching funds to fuel retailers in the state seeking to upgrade their stations to offer gasoline blended with at least 15 percent ethanol.
This initiative is intended to help expand access to higher-ethanol fuel options for consumers across Minnesota. The department may award up to $4.7 million through a competitive review process, with funding coming from an appropriation by the Minnesota Legislature and additional support from Minnesota Corn.
Applicants can request between $5,000 and $199,000 per project but must provide at least a 35 percent cash match of total project costs. Eligible applicants are retail petroleum dispensers operating no more than 20 sites in Minnesota who are actively dispensing fuel at the time of application. The program will prioritize retailers not currently offering higher blends of ethanol and those planning to make such blends available at every dispenser, as well as projects supporting equitable distribution statewide.
“With growing momentum around year-round E15 at the national level, this is an important moment for Minnesota to continue investing in the infrastructure that makes higher ethanol blends more accessible to consumers,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “These investments support Minnesota corn growers, ensure retailers are ready to meet increasing demand for biofuels, and deliver more affordable, lower-emission options for Minnesotans at the pump.”
Eligible expenses include equipment such as tanks and dispensers; supplies like electrical or plumbing components; and construction costs directly related to upgrading or replacing incompatible equipment. Approximately 20–30 grants are expected in this round. Applications must be submitted by June 2.
The department supports public welfare by protecting consumers and promoting local farming products according to its official website. It collaborates with federal agencies including the U.S. Department of Agriculture on agricultural initiatives according to its official website, aiming both economic growth within agriculture and protection of food quality according to its official website. Petersen leads the agency according to its official website, which operates statewide according to its official website.
