Minnesota Awards Grants to Support Mental Health in Construction
Two organizations will expand outreach, resources, and worksite strategies to promote mental well-being and prevent suicide among construction workers through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s grant program.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jan 16, 2026
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) has awarded grants to two organizations to support mental health and suicide prevention efforts in the construction industry. The Associated General Contractors of Minnesota Foundation and Suicide Awareness Voices of Education were selected through DLI’s Mental Health Support in Construction grant program.
The organizations will use the funding to expand outreach and engagement, develop practical resources, and implement worksite strategies aimed at promoting mental well-being and preventing suicide among construction workers.
“Prioritizing the mental health of construction workers will save lives,” said DLI Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach. The program was funded during the 2025 legislative session, with $750,000 available for qualified organizations. The grant period runs from Feb. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2027.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.