Up to $150,000 available to help you train and retain nursing assistants, LPNs, RNs, and other key staff through structured dual-training programs.

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) has opened the 2026 Dual Training Grant application period. This funding supports employers who pair on-the-job training with related classroom instruction, creating a structured pathway for employees to earn an industry-recognized degree, certificate, or credential.

With workforce challenges continuing across senior care, this grant can help offset the cost of training frontline staff in high-demand roles — including nursing assistants, LPNs, RNs, and senior living culinary managers — while building long-term retention strategies.

Grant Details

• Up to $150,000 per grantee for related instruction costs
• Up to $6,000 per employee (dual trainee)
• Up to $15,000 for trainee support costs
• Funds are distributed through a reimbursement process
• Covers tuition, fees, and required materials

Employers must partner with an eligible training institution and train workers in one of more than 75 approved occupations within eligible industries, including health care services.

Key Dates

• March 25, 2026: Technical questions due by noon
• April 2, 2026: Grants management system registration deadline
• April 8, 2026: Proposals due by 4 p.m.

Proposal Workshops

OHE is offering several workshops to walk through the request for proposal process:

• March 3, 2026 | 9–11 a.m. – Virtual workshop (recorded)
• March 4, 2026 | 9–10 a.m. – Virtual refresh workshop (recorded)
• March 10, 2026 | 9–11 a.m. – In-person workshop at OHE in St. Paul

Details and application materials are available on the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) website.

Questions? Contact: Pipeline.Program@state.mn.us

More Funding Opportunities

Looking for additional funding sources? Explore Grant Grid: Funding Opportunities for Minnesota Aging Services Providers, our member-only resource featuring 30+ grants, workforce programs, scholarships, and financing options.