Minnesota opens applications for CanRenew grant funding

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KTTC) – The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced it is accepting applications for the next round of funding for the CanRenew community restoration grant program. The application window runs from Oct. 22 to Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m.

For fiscal year 2027-2028, OCM expects to select between 15 and 50 organizations for grant awards ranging from $50,000 to $2,000,000.

Applicants must submit a written application outlining their proposed community investment, the community’s needs, and expected outcomes. Applications will be evaluated on potential community impact, organizational track record and community support.

Program details

The $10.9 million CanRenew program was established in the 2023 cannabis bill. It invests in communities disproportionately impacted by the past enforcement of cannabis laws, funding projects focused on economic development, public health, violence prevention, civil labor aid, and youth engagement.

“The impact of cannabis prohibition extends far beyond the individuals who were directly affected. Entire communities have experienced the lasting consequences of policies that limited opportunity and contributed to economic and social inequities,” said Jess Jackson, OCM’s director of community and economic development. “Through CanRenew, we have an opportunity to turn the page on that history by reinvesting in the people, organizations and neighborhoods that have borne the greatest burden.”

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, federally recognized Tribes, private businesses, community groups, units of local government, or partnerships among these entities.

Grants are awarded through a competitive process, with priority given to organizations with a track record of successful community investment and community support.

Grant funds cannot be used to support cannabis business operations or revenue-generating projects.

Previous grant recipients

Now entering its third funding cycle, CanRenew has funded projects across Minnesota. In the first round, the Metropolitan Economic Development Association received $70,000 for a program supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis through financial literacy training and mentorship.

Beltrami Area Service Collaboration received $100,000 for its UPLIFT Project, a peer-led substance use prevention program at Bemidji Middle School. Participating seventh graders reported the program helped them make healthier choices and build confidence.

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