Grantee Guide
Step 1: Getting Started
- Confirm your participation in the program! Follow the link that was emailed to you to accept your grant. Download this list of important links for easy access.
- Before you start your project, remember to take “before” photos of your project area. You will need to take “after” images once your project is completed. Before/after photos of your project are required for reimbursement.
- Attend a grantee training webinar (you will be emailed details) or watch a webinar recording (see below).
- All grantees will have access to “The Hive!” The Hive is a new community platform for grantees to connect. You will receive an email to access The Hive. Connect with each other in your region’s “space,” share resources, get answers from coaches, and get program updates from L2L staff.
Watch our 2023 Fall Grantee Kick-off webinar
Step 2: Plan and Install Your Project
- Gather your resources. Check out the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources Planting for Pollinators Design Guide, our Steps to Plant for Pollinators page, and our Resources page for detailed guidance on your specific project.
- Prepare your planting site. Use our Quick Guide to Site Preparation to determine which site prep method is best for your project.
- When buying plants, review Eligible Expenses and Acceptable Vegetation guide, check out our Native Nurseries and Retailers list, and don’t forget to save your receipts!
- Note that only native Minnesota plants can be reimbursed. Non-native cultivars, “nativars,” hybrids and annuals are not eligible for reimbursement. Need help telling the difference between a native plant and cultivar? Review our Native Plants vs Cultivars handout.
Step 3: Complete your Project!
- When your project is complete, submit your photos, receipts, and other documentation on our reimbursement page. Review our Reimbursement Guide for extra tips!
- Please be patient as we send out your check and sign. There may be delays, but we are doing our best to review and approve reimbursement requests as they come. Once you receive your check, please deposit it within 90 days or your check will be voided.
- Map your completed project so we can share the impact of our collective work on protecting the pollinators.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find the information you are looking for, email us at L2Lhelp@bluethumb.org.