Call for Building Activation Projects
in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Montana
2026-2028 Activate Rural Learning Lab
Calling all rural builders, dreamers, and community shapers!
The 2026 – 2028 Activate Rural Learning Lab is gearing up, and the Call for Building Activation Projects in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Montana officially opens January 5, 2026!
If you’re eager to bring new life, connection, and creativity into a rural space, now’s the time to start imagining what’s possible. You can preview the application materials today!
The Activate Rural Learning Lab is a curated cohort program designed for teams of creative entrepreneurs, artists, community activators, elected leaders, and small business owners who want to cultivate vibrant third places in their communities.
Participants receive:
Grant funding
Monthly project check-ins
Exchange visits & workshops
Gatherings with peers across the region
Dedicated staff support to help build systems for operations, activations, and long-term stewardship
If you’re ready to bring a building to life and strengthen community in the process, we’d love to see what you’re dreaming up.
Timeline
January 5, 2026: Online application form opens
January 21, 2026: Virtual Informational Session (12-1pm)
will be recorded and made available on our website
February 20, 2026: Online Application forms due at 11:59 pm CST
March 2026: Selection committee review applications
April 6-10, 2026: Applicant notifications and 30 minute Zoom meetings with finalists
May 2026: Public announcement of selected 10 cohort teams and projects
Visit here for a PDF Preview of the Application Materials -> link.publictransformation.org/ARPreview
