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SMSC Announces Scott County Trail Projects to Receive $300,000 in Grants

Prior Lake, Minn. – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) announced today that it has made $300,000 in grants available for trail improvements that will benefit Scott County residents. The county government and any city, township, or school district located in Scott County is eligible to apply, along with charitable organizations in cooperation with an eligible government.

"Our Community strives to be a good neighbor and a good steward of the earth," said SMSC Chairman Charles R. Vig. “Through these grants, we’re excited to help our Scott County neighbors improve their communities’ access to nature."

The total funding available is $300,000, with the maximum single grant capped at $100,000. There is no minimum amount. 

The SMSC has opened the application process online at shakopeedakota.org/trailsgrant. Applicants whose projects fill trail gaps, augment existing trail systems, improve access to existing public natural areas, or provide additional environmental benefit beyond simple access will be given preference. Applicants should also note any plans or opportunities involving local volunteers.

Eligibility
To be eligible, an applicant must be a:

• Scott County government
• City or township government located in Scott County
• School district located in Scott County
• Non-governmental organization that is organized as a charitable organization under applicable federal and state law and is applying in cooperation with an eligible governmental body

Applicants must also be prepared to:

• Fulfill a required 20% match on each grant (either in cash or in kind)
• Substantially complete the funded project by December 31, 2019

Timeline
Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2018. Grant recipients will be announced on January 8, 2019.

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Native American tribe located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to Native American tribes and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise, and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County.