Approved: $1.16 million to expand rental housing opportunities and stability

ST. PAUL, MN - The Minnesota Housing board has approved $1.16 million to help secure stable housing for Minnesotans facing barriers to the rental market. The funding will support the Property Owner Risk Mitigation Fund Program, which reimburses enrolled property owners for certain losses that go beyond a security deposit.  

The funding comes from the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program. Two grant administrators have been recommended for selection: HousingLink and the Northwest Minnesota Foundation. Together, the two organizations are expected to help assist 372 households during the four-year grant term, with reimbursements between $3,000 to $5,000 per household.  

HousingLink will receive $1 million to provide statewide coverage. The organization is expected to assist 332 households, including 193 in the metro and 139 in Greater Minnesota.   

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation will receive $160,000 to serve northwestern counties and Tribal Nations. The organization is expected to help house 40 households. Its proposal focuses on Native households, youth and young families, and people returning to the community after incarceration or treatment.  

“Minnesota Housing knows that many renters can succeed when they get a fair chance and the right support,” said Commissioner Jennifer Ho. “This program helps reduce financial concerns for property owners while opening more doors for households working to regain stability.”     

Minnesota Housing selected the recommended grantees after a competitive request for proposals. Nine applications were submitted, eight met review requirements, and eligible applicants requested more than $4.1 million in total. Criteria included overall score, geographic coverage, service to populations disproportionately impacted by homelessness, and project viability when making the recommendations.  

This work supports Minnesota Housing’s strategic goals, which include expanding incentives for property owners and managers who provide housing to people with barriers.