County Development Fund Grant Awards

Bemidji, MN – The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners finalized the allocation of the Beltrami County Development Fund grants for the year 2024. Through a competitive grant application process, several applicants successfully submitted applications to further the vision of the development fund. The Beltrami County Development Fund had an available balance of $60,000 for the year 2024. Each County Commissioner allocates 1/5 (20%) of the available fund based on applications.

Eligible applicants were required to demonstrate how their activities furthered the promotion of tourism, agricultural and industrial development in Beltrami County. Applicants were also required to demonstrate a financial commitment and financial contribution from private commercial, industrial, or tourism based businesses who could be considered beneficiaries of the program, activity or organization. Any proceeds of the County grant is expected to benefit the entire county.

The following applicants and dollar awards have been announced for the 2024 County Development Fund:

1.      Beltrami County Agricultural Association ($17,470)

2.     Beltrami County Historical Society ($2,140)

3.     Bemidji Community Area ($1,700)

4.     Bemidji Community Theater ($1,400)

5.     Bemidji Girls Fast Pitch Softball Association ($1,500)

6.     Blackduck Area History and Art Center ($460)

7.     Blackduck Golf Course ($570)

8.     Boys and Girls Club of Bemidji Area ($6,500)

9.     Greater Bemidji ($26,040)

10.  Watermark Art Center ($1,100)

11.  Loon County Arts Collective ($1,120)

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners thanks all applicants for their interest and participation in the process. As with many grant opportunities, requests exceeded available funding. The County Development Fund is funded through one of Beltrami County’s greatest resources, timber. Timber sales fund many initiatives including township operations, school districts and the County Development Fund that made these awards possible.