The University of Minnesota has been chosen to lead a multi-state effort to help rural, tribal, and underserved communities access federal funding for energy and environmental improvement efforts. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency selected the University as an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC), accompanied by a $10 million grant to administer the program and establish “one-stop shops” for grant assistance across six states. 

The project will be led by Associate Professors Bonnie Keeler and Gabe Chan of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, in collaboration with University of Minnesota Extension Associate Dean Stephen Jeanetta.

The University and partners will help communities navigate federal grant application systems, provide guidance on community engagement, and help communities in securing funds to address legacy pollution and invest in clean energy technologies. 

Keeler said the center’s role is to ensure that the billions of dollars the federal government has committed for infrastructure and energy improvements are shared equitably.