The Legal Technical Assistance for Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) Healthy Eating and Active Living Strategies Grant, administered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), offers up to $272,540 in funding to support organizations providing legal technical assistance (TA) for SHIP grantees. This initiative focuses on advancing community-driven policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes that promote healthy eating and active living across Minnesota. The grant is part of MDH’s broader effort to reduce health disparities and improve public health outcomes statewide.

The grant period runs from March 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, with the possibility of continuation for up to four additional years, subject to funding availability. Eligible applicants must be based in Minnesota and have at least two years of experience offering legal TA on PSE changes related to healthy eating and active living. They must demonstrate the ability to collaborate with public health agencies, schools, workplaces, child care settings, and diverse communities. Applicants must also be registered with Minnesota’s Office of the Secretary of State. Individuals, informal groups, and organizations applying with a fiscal agent are not eligible.

The selected grantee will provide customized legal and policy support to SHIP grantees and MDH staff, which includes creating policy briefs, toolkits, and consultation services. Additional responsibilities include participating in monthly virtual project management meetings, presenting findings at statewide SHIP conferences, and contributing to efforts that integrate health equity and address disparities.

To apply, organizations must submit a detailed application, including a capacity statement, work plan, budget, budget narrative, and a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement. Required attachments include a conflict of interest form, due diligence review, and a budget spreadsheet. Applications are due by January 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM CST, and must be submitted via email to health.healthyeating@state.mn.us. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scale, considering factors such as organizational capacity, work plan, budget, and the inclusion of equity principles. Successful applicants will be notified by February 10, 2025.

This funding opportunity is ideal for organizations with expertise in legal and policy support for health-focused initiatives. It provides a platform to contribute meaningfully to Minnesota’s statewide health improvement goals, particularly in reducing health disparities through innovative and equitable approaches. For additional information, applicants can contact MDH via email or refer to the grant’s webpage.