Senator Klobuchar’s Office Accepting Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests

Cities have until March 31 to submit applications on the Senator’s website for project proposals seeking federal funding.

The Office of Senator Amy Klobuchar is now accepting fiscal year (FY) 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) requests, also known as earmarks. This opportunity allows members of Congress to request federal funding for specific projects benefiting their states.

Eligible applicants include Minnesota-based state and local government entities and nonprofit organizations seeking funding for impactful projects that can be completed with federal assistance. However, submitting an application does not guarantee funding, as resources are limited and awarded on a competitive basis.

Application process and deadlines

The FY 2026 application form may be subject to updates pending guidance from the Senate Appropriations Committee, including a finalized list of eligible CDS accounts. The website and application form will be updated accordingly when FY 2026 guidance is released.

Key steps to apply

• Submit requests to multiple offices: In addition to applying through Senator Klobuchar’s office, applicants should also submit identical CDS requests to Senator Tina Smith’s office and their House of Representatives member.
• Access the application: Visit Senator Klobuchar’s Congressionally Directed Spending webpage to complete the application.
• Plan ahead: Organizations should begin the application process early to allow time for any necessary corrections or clarifications.
• Meet the deadline: Applications must be submitted by March 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT.
• Follow program guidance: Carefully review program eligibility requirements, including matching funds requirements for certain accounts.

Important updates and reminders

• FY 2025 project status: The Senate’s FY 2025 budget bill includes previously approved projects, but their status remains uncertain due to the Continuing Resolution (CR) extending through March 15, 2025. More information will be available after that date. View the FY 2025 CDS accounts and eligibility requirements.
• Transparency requirements: Senate rules require that all congressional offices publicly disclose and describe CDS project requests on the Senator’s website.
• No guaranteed funding: Submitting a request does not guarantee an award. Each submission must include a detailed project budget.
• Federal oversight compliance: Entities receiving funds must comply with any audits, investigations, or oversight requests from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) or other federal agencies. Receiving funding one year does not ensure future funding.
• For-profit entities are not eligible: Only state and local government entities and nonprofit organizations may apply.

For additional questions, please contact CDS@klobuchar.senate.gov.

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