Dakota County offers grants up to $10,000 to public and private schools to start or improve waste management practices, including reuse, recycling, food waste prevention and organics collection. No match is required.
- Grant project examples:
- Recycling and organics program improvements (indoor and outdoor)
- Waste reduction projects (reusable serviceware, food share tables)
- Staff stipends (Green Team leader, cafeteria monitor)
- Student and staff education (training, presentations)
- A County-hired consultant provides assistance throughout the project, including:
- Grant application assistance
- Implementation, coordination and trouble-shooting assistance
- Documentation of project activities and results
- School must provide a contact person to collaborate, engage leaders at a kick-off and final project meetings, and start or engage a student Green Team
Mini grants up to $1,000 are available for schools looking for minor support to supplement existing programs. Mini grants have limited technical assistance and fewer school responsibilities.
Application timeline
Applications for grants up to $10,000 are closed for the 2019-2020 school year. Contact schoolrecycling@co.dakota.mn.us for more information and to be placed on the waiting list to be notified when applications become available.
Applications for mini grants up to $1,000 may be submitted year-round. Submit a 
School Mini Grant Form to schoolrecycling@co.dakota.mn.us to apply.
Grants are approved on a first-come, first-served basis as funds allow.
Learn more
Review the Grant Program Summary.
Contact schoolrecycling@co.dakota.mn.us with questions.